Chinese scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery of a plant capable of surviving on Mars. This extraordinary find, known as 'desert algae,' thrives in the harsh conditions of the Mojave Desert and Antarctica. This discovery, detailed in The Innovation scientific journal and reported by The Guardian, has the potential to revolutionize space research and aid in the establishment of life on Mars. Learn more about the scientific data and researchers' insights on this exciting development.
This 'desert moss', which has the potential to excite the scientific world and start a new era, grows in the Mojave Desert of America and in Antarctica. According to researchers, this plant could help establish life on Mars.
Chinese scientists state that this type of moss, called 'Syntrichia caninervis', can withstand the harsh conditions of Mars, including drought, high radiation levels, and extreme cold. The study is the first to examine the ability of plants to survive in such conditions. The article, which also explores the potential of growing plants directly on the planet's surface instead of in greenhouses, was published in the scientific journal The Innovation.
The moss managed to survive for five years at -80C and for 30 days at -196C. After being exposed to gamma rays, it managed to regenerate under normal growth conditions with doses of about 500Gy and even stimulated new growth.
According to an article in The Guardian, moss expert Prof. Stuart McDaniel from the University of Florida stated that this idea has several advantages. According to McDaniel, growing terrestrial plants is an important part of long-term space missions because plants convert carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and carbohydrates. This provides the air and food necessary for humans to survive. Although desert moss is not edible, it can offer other important services in space.
All this data suggests that the rocky ground of Mars could be enriched: Dr. Johnson says, 'This type of moss is an excellent example of biological life that could exist on the surface of Mars.' Dr. Sarah Johnson said, 'This type of moss is an excellent example of biological life that could exist on the surface of Mars.' According to Johnson, the 'desert moss', which has managed to adapt to the atmospheric pressure and radiation levels of Mars, offers a promising start for our efforts to establish life on Mars.