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Microbes can colonize space, produce drugs and create energy. But how?

The article from MSN discusses the potential of microbes in space exploration, highlighting their ability to adapt, survive, and even thrive in extraterrestrial environments. It explores how these microorganisms could be utilized in space for various applications such as producing pharmaceuticals, generating energy, and recycling waste. Scientists are studying extremophiles, microbes that live in extreme conditions on Earth, to understand how life might exist on other planets or moons. The article mentions experiments like those conducted on the International Space Station (ISS) where microbes have been shown to grow in microgravity, suggesting their potential use in long-term space missions. Furthermore, it touches on the concept of using microbes for bioremediation, creating biofuels, and even in situ resource utilization (ISRU) on other planets, which could reduce the need to transport heavy supplies from Earth. The piece also raises concerns about microbial contamination of other planets and the need for planetary protection protocols.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/science/microbiology/microbes-can-colonize-space-produce-drugs-and-create-energy-but-how/ar-AA1x3Nwq ]