SynbioNet-SciCom

Indestructible Spores: Mold That Can Survive Space

Mold spores are remarkably resilient and have even been detected aboard the International Space Station (ISS), where astronauts regularly clean surfaces to prevent excessive growth. Research shows that spores from common molds such as Aspergillus and Penicillium can survive radiation doses up to 200 times higher than those lethal to humans, making them among the toughest microorganisms known.

Their ability to withstand harsh conditions, including intense radiation and the vacuum-like environment of space, has important implications for long-duration space missions, planetary protection, and the search for life beyond Earth. Scientists are also investigating whether these fungi could produce useful compounds for future space exploration.

Original References:

1. Cortesão, M., de Haas, A., Unterbusch, R., et al. (2020). Aspergillus niger Spores Are Highly Resistant to Space Radiation. Frontiers in Microbiology, 11, 560.
2. American Geophysical Union (AGU). (2019). Space station mold survives high doses of ionizing radiation.