Earth Microbes Can Survive on Moon, NASA-Led Study Finds
Summary
A NASA-led study finds that some Earth microorganisms could survive on the Moon for weeks to months, especially in permanently shadowed craters near the south pole. Scientists warn that future lunar missions may inadvertently contaminate the Moon and complicate analysis of lunar samples and ice resources.
Key Points
- NASA-led researchers tested fungi and bacteria under lunar-like conditions and found some could survive for weeks to months in certain Moon regions.
- Aspergillus niger and Deinococcus radiodurans were among the most resilient microorganisms in the study.
- Permanently shadowed craters near the Moon’s south pole may offer survivable zones with less radiation exposure.
- Scientists warn that microbes brought by astronauts or equipment could contaminate future lunar missions and lunar sample analysis.
