Shields Up!

One of the largest hurdles for mankind becoming a deep-space species is the high level of radiation in space. The radiation in space is made up of three different types. Yes, there's a bunch of different types of radiation. We have some lower level types here on earth that we tolerate: cell phone, Wi-Fi, microwave, etc. But there are three types out in space that pose great risk to human life. This includes particles trapped in the Earth’s magnetic field; particles shot into space during solar flares (solar particle events); and galactic cosmic rays, which are high-energy protons and heavy ions from outside our solar system.

So, we have certain protections from this radiation, such as space suits and the ship itself. It doesn't prevent ALL of the harmful effects but enough for us to explore a bit. So, this is the challenge: How can we develop a way to stay out there longer without dying? Enter: Nasa.

The great minds at NASA have been testing mold from Chernobyl at the space station. Yes, THAT Chernobyl. Researchers placed the fungi aboard the ISS for 30 days and analyzed its ability to block radiation. Fungi, like C. sphaerospermum, contain a pigment known as melanin, which can absorb radiation and turn it into energy. The idea is to form a biological radiation shield. Pretty cool idea.