Earth Microbes Can Survive on Moon, NASA-Led Study Finds

Washington. Some microorganisms from Earth appear capable of surviving for some time in the harsh environment of the Moon. A new study led by NASA has shown this. Scientists have expressed concern that in future lunar missions, Earth's microbes might inadvertently reach the Moon and affect its environment.

During the study, researchers tested five types of fungi and bacteria in conditions similar to the lunar environment. NASA scientists conducted computer modeling based on data related to the environment of the Noble Rim, Connecting Ridge, and De Gerlache Rim areas near the Moon's south pole.