A type of terrestrial moss stunned scientists after surviving 283 days in the vacuum of space

In an experiment conducted outside the International Space Station, spores of Physcomitrium patens were exposed to extreme space conditions — total vacuum, intense ultraviolet radiation, and drastic temperature changes — for nearly ten months. These are conditions that would destroy most life forms instantly.

When the samples returned to Earth aboard a SpaceX Dragon capsule, researchers found that more than 80 percent had survived, and nearly 90 percent of those were able to germinate successfully in the lab.

Led by Tomomichi Fujita of Hokkaido University, the study suggests the moss’s simple and ancient biological structure, dating back around 400 million years, plays a key role in its resilience. Scientists now estimate the spores could potentially survive up to 5,600 days in space.

The findings expand our understanding of the limits of life and may help support future agriculture in space environments.

Defund SpaceX

Defund SpaceX

Honda R&D Co., Ltd., the research division of Honda, successfully launched and vertically landed a prototype reusable rocket at its testing site in Taiki, Hokkaido, Japan.

The test vehicle stood 6.3 meters tall, weighed about 1.3 metric tons, and reached a height of 271 meters (890 feet). Most impressively, it achieved a precision landing within 37 centimeters of the designated pad after hovering for over 56 seconds.

This test was part of Honda’s long-term vision to develop low-cost, small-scale reusable launch systems that can support satellite deployment and suborbital missions.

By 2029, Honda aims to develop a rocket capable of reaching suborbital space (~100 km altitude), marking a serious entry into the private aerospace sector.

While Honda has not announced any immediate commercial plans, the test marks a significant milestone. It positions the company alongside global players like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and ISRO, showcasing the potential of traditional automakers to expand into space technology.

The successful test also underscores Honda’s ability to integrate its automotive expertise—particularly in control systems and fuel efficiency—into space applications.

After the Iranian government shut down internet access nationwide, cutting off 90 million people, Elon Musk responded by activating Starlink to restore connectivity. Starlink, powered by SpaceX’s satellite network, beams high-speed internet directly from space, bypassing government firewalls and censorship systems.

This move marks another bold intervention by Musk in global digital rights, echoing earlier efforts in Ukraine and Gaza. With approximately 20,000 terminals smuggled into Iran, Starlink is now a lifeline for communication, access to news, and organizing support—giving Iranians a powerful tool to stay connected with the outside world.

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