This webarticle features the Archaea, an ancient branch of life commonly found living in extreme environments such as volcanic vents and hotsprings, and attempts of researchers aboard the Life and Microgravity Spacelab (LMS) to study these extreme microorganisms. The article includes discussion on the microbes' heat-tolerant enzymes, the origins of Archaea, the possibility of Archaea-like life forms on other planets, and scientists' continuing efforts to explore the biology and biotechnological benefits of these extreme microorganisms. The site also provides a section of references and further reading, and links to other research conducted aboard LMS, the Science@NASA homepage, and other useful websites.
Subject: Biology:Evolution, Ecology:Metabolism, Biology:Astrobiology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Microbiology:Methods of Microbiology Resource Type: Scientific Resources:Overview/Reference Work Grade Level: General Public, College Lower (13-14), High School (9-12), Middle (6-8) Extreme Environments: Extremely Hot
