Moss spores survive space exposure, testing life’s bounds, PgII

Key Highlights:

• Physcomitrium patens moss spores were tested for resilience in space-like conditions.
• Spores encased in sporangium were sent to the International Space Station (ISS) for nine months.
• Around 86% of fully exposed spores germinated after returning from space.
• Moss spores rival radiation-resistant microbes in handling short-wavelength UV radiation.
• The study strengthens the idea of using bryophytes to support life-support systems in extraterrestrial bases.

Detailed Insights:

• Bryophytes, including mosses, were among the first plants to colonize land and have endured climate shifts.
• The research examined the ability of moss tissues to withstand extreme stress and survive in open space.
• Protonemata died quickly under strong UV light, freezing temperatures, and high heat in ground tests.
• Spores protected by the sporangium survived high UV doses, deep freezing, and high heat with minimal germination loss.
• The sporangium provides a protective shell against radiation, temperature extremes, and vacuum, similar to seed coats in higher plants.
• Moss spores' UV tolerance rivals radiation-resistant microbes and some crop seeds, particularly in handling short-wavelength UV.
• The study suggests that bryophytes could help in creating extraterrestrial bases and closed life-support systems.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Bryophytes: Non-vascular plants including mosses, liverworts, and hornworts.
• Protonemata: Young filaments produced by germinating moss spores.
• Sporangium: A protective enclosure where spores are formed.
• UV Radiation: Electromagnetic radiation with short wavelengths.