In a groundbreaking initiative, scientists are proposing the creation of a “biorepository” on the Moon to safeguard endangered species from Earth. This ambitious plan involves cryogenically freezing DNA, seeds, spores, and other biological materials and storing them at the Moon’s poles, where temperatures are frigid enough to preserve these specimens indefinitely.
The vision: A life bank on the Moon
The concept revolves around using liquid nitrogen to freeze biological materials, which would then be transported to the Moon aboard a rocket. Once there, these specimens would be stored at the lunar poles, where temperatures range between -180°C to -230°C, ensuring they remain frozen until future advancements in technology can potentially revive the species.
This initiative is a response to the alarming reality that over 1 million species on Earth are currently at risk of extinction. By preserving their genetic material on the Moon, scientists hope to create a long-term solution that could one day restore biodiversity if these species disappear from Earth.
Why the Moon?
The Moon offers several advantages over Earth as a storage site for these precious specimens. The most significant benefit is the naturally cold temperatures at the lunar poles, which eliminate the need for expensive artificial cooling systems required on Earth. Once the biological materials are safely stored on the Moon, they would require no additional energy or maintenance costs to remain frozen.
Moreover, the Moon is free from natural disasters, such as earthquakes or floods, which could jeopardize a similar facility on Earth. The lack of human habitation and ownership disputes also makes the Moon an ideal location, as there would be no risk of contamination or degradation due to human activities. Additionally, thick layers of lunar regolith would shield the specimens from harmful cosmic radiation.
A Step towards the future of space exploration
This project aligns with humanity’s broader aspirations to establish a presence on the Moon and explore beyond. As cryopreservation techniques advance, this lunar life bank could serve as a critical testbed for future space missions. Scientists will gain valuable insights into how biological materials withstand the harsh conditions of space, particularly the effects of cosmic radiation.
A study published in the Oxford Academic journal BioScience suggests that a lunar backup could enhance current Earth-based conservation efforts. NASA is also interested in the Moon’s poles, where the presence of ice could aid future human colonies.
Researchers from Harvard, the Smithsonian, and other institutions are developing techniques to collect, freeze, and transport endangered species’ samples to the Moon. They are starting with protocols for the starry goby fish.
Safeguarding Earth’s biodiversity
The proposed lunar ‘life bank’ represents a visionary approach to addressing the global biodiversity crisis. With so many species on the brink of extinction, this initiative could provide a vital safety net, ensuring that the genetic material of Earth’s endangered species is preserved for future generations. As humanity continues to explore the cosmos, this project could serve as a crucial step in our efforts to protect and possibly restore the planet’s rich biological heritage.