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Moss Spores Survive in Outer Space

siur from Getty Images/CanvaPro

A 2025 study published in iScience revealed that moss spores can survive the harsh conditions of outer space. Researchers from Hokkaido University, in Japan, conducted lab testing on juvenile moss, moss stem cells and moss spores encased in sporophyte structures, exposing them to simulated space conditions. The sporophytes were 1,000 times more tolerant of ultraviolet radiation than the stem cells. They even managed to endure temperatures as cold as -320° F for more than a week and as hot as 130° F for an entire month.

To validate these lab findings, hundreds of sporophytes spent 283 days on a platform attached to the International Space Station before returning to Earth. More than 80 percent of the spores survived the journey, and of those, 89 percent were subsequently able to germinate.

Mathematical models indicate that spores could potentially survive up to 15 years in space. Researchers believe the sporophytes’ tough outer coating shields the spores from radiation and extreme temperatures. This research could help us understand life’s resilience on Earth and pave the way for building ecosystems in extra-terrestrial environments.

In-Print National Content Global Brief Global and Health Briefs August 2026
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The Tick Tackler Tutor: Three Impactful Tick Remediation Strategies for the Homeowner

By Jennifer Meisenbacher

Did you know most tick bites occur in and around the home—and that ticks spend more than 95% of their life off a host?

With more than 19 years of field experience, Tick Tackler offers a practical, easy-to-follow approach that empowers homeowners to significantly reduce tick activity on their properties. From gardening and yard work to children’s play areas, this guide outlines essential adjustments to help protect your outdoor spaces from ticks.

The Tick Tackler Tutor introduces three impactful strategies designed to identify high-risk areas and minimize exposure. These methods are versatile and adaptable—whether you’re a homeowner, pet owner, beekeeper, or managing a larger property such as a doggy daycare or horse farm.

Inside, readers will discover how education leads to confidence, how small changes can yield visible results, and how breaking tick control into manageable steps restores a sense of control. The book simplifies complex concepts into three core strategies, guiding readers in creating a personalized plan to reduce tick activity effectively.

For those eager to reclaim their yards but unsure where to begin, this guide delivers clear, actionable solutions. Transform your outdoor environment into a safer, more enjoyable space for family, pets, and everyday living.

Available now on Amazon.

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