Initial Publication Date: March 30, 2005 (see revision history: 2 events)

Educators' Collection of Resources on Microbial Life Exposed to High Levels of Radiation

This microbe, called Halobacterium, may hold the key to protecting astronauts from one of the greatest threats they would face during a mission to Mars: space radiation. The harsh radiation of interplanetary space can penetrate astronauts' bodies, damaging the DNA in their cells, which can cause cancer and other illnesses. DNA damage is also behind cancers that people suffer here on Earth. Photo and excerpt taken from http://science.nasa.gov/headlines/y2004/10sep_radmicrobe.htm

Featured Resources

Life in Extreme Environments:The Astrobiology Web publishes this list of links about life in extreme environments. Subjects include general information, genomic resources, thermophilic life, endolithic organisms, bacteria in amber, dry (xerophytic) organisms, radiation tolerance, deep and dark dwelling organisms, life at varied pressures, halophilic organisms, research agencies, the domain Archaea, deep ocean thermal vents, and recommended books..._{(more info)}

Other Radiation Collections

Advanced Collection: Compiled for professionals and advanced learners, this collection includes resources such as journal articles, academic reviews, and surveys.

General Collection: Resources such as news articles, web sites, and reference pages provide a comprehensive array of information about radiation tolerant microbes.