Scientists Prove That Human Gut Bacteria Can Survive a Trip to Space Without Us

Scientists have discovered that certain gut bacteria can survive the harsh conditions of space without a human host. A study published in the journal Frontiers in Microbiology examined the resilience of various microorganisms, including Bacillus subtilis, a common gut bacterium, during a spaceflight mission. The researchers found that the bacteria were able to withstand the microgravity, cosmic radiation, and other extreme conditions of space for an extended period. This suggests that these microbes could potentially colonize other planetary bodies, such as Mars, without the need for a human presence. The implications of this finding are significant for future space exploration. It raises the possibility that certain gut bacteria could be used to aid in the establishment of self-sustaining ecosystems on other planets, potentially facilitating human settlement and long-term habitation. The study also highlights the adaptability and resilience of microorganisms, which could have broader applications in understanding the origins of life and the potential for extraterrestrial microbial life.