Microbes Could Survive on the Moon | Science News

NASA’s new research reveals that Earth microbes, including a tough fungus called Aspergillus niger, could survive in the Moon’s shadowy, ultra-cold South Pole craters — raising big questions about planetary protection as humans head to the lunar surface. Scientists warn that our own germs could ruin the hunt for ancient lunar chemistry, while also hinting that these extreme environments might serve as natural labs to test life’s limits. Survival doesn’t equal thriving — these microbes may just be hanging on in dormancy — but their persistence demands extreme caution as we prepare to explore. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/670dcd0ef4cb8e87