Chernobyl nuclear fungus may shield astronauts from radiation in space

Radiation-Eating Fungus at Chernobyl

A distinctive dark-black fungus discovered at the Chernobyl nuclear disaster site survives by consuming deadly radiation. This fungus effectively converts radiation into chemical energy through a process akin to photosynthesis but using melanin pigments to capture and transform the ionizing radiation.

Potential Space Applications

Scientists are investigating this fungus’s ability to use radiation as an energy source to develop potential radiation shields for astronauts. Its unique radiotrophic properties could provide protection in the highly radioactive environment of space, where cosmic radiation poses significant threats to human health.

Fungal Mechanism and Research

The fungus uses melanin to convert gamma radiation into energy, a process researchers describe as "radiosynthesis." This process allows it to thrive in areas of extreme radiation that would be lethal to most organisms.

Implications for Human Use

Harnessing the radiation-absorbing and energy-converting capabilities of this fungus might lead to innovative bio-based radiation shields or energy sources for spacecraft, improving safety and sustainability in long-duration space missions.

"A peculiar dark-black fungus at the Chernobyl disaster site is found to survive by feeding on deadly radiation."
— Interesting Engineering

Author's Summary

A unique Chernobyl fungus transforms lethal radiation into usable energy, inspiring new radiation shielding technologies for safer human space exploration.

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Interesting Engineering Interesting Engineering — 2025-12-01

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