8 incredible animals that can survive in outer space
Thanks to unique biological traits, these space-resilient species are helping scientists understand how life might exist beyond Earth. From microscopic water bears to lab-tested rodents, these animals have either survived actual space missions or simulated space conditions with astonishing results. If you're fascinated by space biology, interstellar survival, or future life-support research, these 8 incredible animals that can survive in space will leave you amazed and maybe a little inspired by nature's resilience.
8 animals that can survive in space conditions
Tardigrades (Water Bears)
Tardigrades are the champions of survival. These microscopic creatures can survive dehydration, freezing, boiling, radiation, and even the vacuum of outer space. In 2007, they were launched into
space
and came back alive after direct exposure to cosmic radiation. Scientists believe tardigrades' ability to enter a cryptobiosis state is key to their space resilience.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are famous for their toughness, and space has only proven that reputation. In a Russian
experiment
aboard Foton-M3 in 2007, cockroach eggs were exposed to space radiation—and still hatched.
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Their resistance to radiation and ability to thrive in extreme environments makes them a fascinating subject in astrobiology and space research.
Roundworms
These tiny nematodes were part of
NASA
's Columbia shuttle mission. After surviving re-entry, they proved invaluable in studying how microgravity affects muscle development, aging, and gene expression. Their biological makeup is surprisingly similar to humans, making them perfect candidates for long-term space studies in simulated extraterrestrial conditions.
Brine Shrimp (Sea Monkeys)
Brine shrimp can survive complete dehydration, which allows their eggs to be sent to space and rehydrated later. On several missions, these tiny crustaceans have successfully hatched in orbit. Their unique lifecycle and resistance to harsh environments make them great models for closed-loop ecosystems in space travel.
Fruit Flies
Fruit flies
have been going to space since 1947, making them the first animals ever launched by the U.S. They reproduce quickly and are used to study the genetic effects of radiation and microgravity.
Their contribution to space genetics has provided crucial data for human health in long-term space missions.
Mice
Mice are common test subjects aboard the International Space Station. They help researchers study bone loss, muscle atrophy, and stress in microgravity. In space, their bodies undergo similar changes to humans, which helps scientists test medicines, gene expression, and physical adaptation techniques for future human missions.
Fungi
Though technically not animals, some fungi have survived space conditions and are worth including. Species like Cryptococcus neoformans and Cladosporium sphaerospermum not only endured radiation but appeared to grow better in it. These fungi are now being studied for future space missions as natural radiation shields or even food sources.
Zebrafish
Zebrafish are a key part of space experiments due to their genetic similarity to humans and transparent bodies. They've been used in
ISS
missions to study heart development, bone loss, and how microgravity affects the nervous system. Their embryos have even shown successful growth in space conditions.
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