2024-07-24 06:00:13
Could the possibility of colonizing Mars become a reality thanks to an Earthly moss? Chinese researchers have discovered that Syntrichia caninervis, an extremophile moss, can survive in simulated Martian conditions. This discovery opens up prospects for the terraforming mars.
The Innovation published on July 1, 2024 a study carried out by researchers from theAcademy Chinese Academy of Sciences. They have highlighted the exceptional survival abilities of Syntrichia caninervis. This moss was subjected to extreme temperatures, ranging from -80°C to -195°C, high radiation, and conditions simulating those of Mars. The results show that this moss could play a key role in the terraformation of the red planet.
Syntrichia caninervis already grows in extreme environments on Earth, such as the Mojave Desert and theAntarctic. Tests have shown that this moss can survive temperatures ranging from -67°C to 20°C, typical of Mars, as well as doses of radiation of 500 grays (Gy). For comparison, a dose of 50 Gy would be lethal for a human being. In addition, this foam has demonstrated an ability to regenerate after periods of freezing prolonged, which is essential for surviving Martian conditions.
The researchers used a planetary atmosphere simulator to recreate the conditions of Mars: an atmosphere composed of 95% CO2, low atmospheric pressures, extremely low temperatures and high UV radiation. Under these conditions, Syntrichia caninervis showed a 100% recovery rate after a 30-hour exposure. days. Mosses dehydrated before exposure regenerated more quickly than hydrated ones.
Despite these promising results, experts like Stuart McDaniel of the University of Florida point out that this moss could not, on its own, provide a significant source of oxygen on Mars. In addition, Wieger Wamelink of theUniversité de Wageningen points out that the tests were carried out on terrestrial soil, and not MartinThis casts doubt on the actual ability of Syntrichia caninervis to thrive on Mars.
Terraforming Mars remains a hypothetical concept, but this discovery shows that terrestrial organisms like Syntrichia caninervis could potentially help create habitable conditions on the Red Planet. Future experiments will need to determine whether this moss can actually contribute to the colonization of mars and the Moon.
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