News > Discovery to boost space travel safety: four bacteria capable of surviving on Mars

Discovery to boost space travel safety: four bacteria capable of surviving on Mars

Microbiologists have discovered that some species of bacteria can survive in extremely aggressive conditions, both on Earth and in space. These bacteria can thrive in places with high levels of radiation, sun, extreme temperatures and lack of water. These results raise concerns about the safety of astronauts travelling to places such as Mars — if bacteria from Earth falls on them or their equipment, it could lead to illness or even death.