NASA Scientist Proposes Growing Moon & Mars Habitats with Fungi
NASA scientist Dr. Lynn J Rothschild is exploring an innovative method to build habitats on the Moon and Mars using fungi. Synthetic biology techniques could engineer fungi for faster growth and better radiation protection, making them ideal for extraterrestrial living spaces.
Dr. Rothschild, an astrobiologist and synthetic biologist at NASA's Ames Research Center, proposes using a double-bag system. This involves a lightweight scaffold infused with dried fungal mycelia and water containers. Upon adding water, the structure inflates, and the fungi grow to fill the scaffold, creating a habitat.
The Moon's harsh radiation and lack of atmosphere pose significant challenges. However, fungi engineered for higher radiation protection could mitigate this issue. Mars, while having a longer travel time, offers some radiation protection due to its thin atmosphere. Growing a Martian mushroom house could take around a month, depending on environmental conditions.
Space agencies like NASA, ESA, or private companies such as SpaceX would be responsible for developing these mushroom-shaped habitat structures. Two major challenges remain: adjusting to different gravity regimes and radiation exposure. A precursor mission to set up the habitat before astronauts arrive on Mars is recommended.
Future lunar and Martian explorers could potentially live, work, and sleep in structures grown from fungi. This innovative approach could revolutionize space habitation, making it more sustainable and efficient.
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