Aspergillus survives space simulations

- Scientists reported Aspergillus calidoustus strains taken from NASA cleanrooms survived simulated space stressors including ionizing radiation, vacuum exposure, and freeze cycles. (x.com) - The isolate endured combined radiation, vacuum and freeze-thaw testing designed to mimic Mars transit and surface conditions, showing unusually high resilience. (x.com) - That finding raises forward-contamination concerns for Mars surface and sample-return missions and may force tighter planetary-protection steps. (x.com)