Tardigrades, also known as water bears, are microscopic organisms known for their resilience. In September 2007, they became the first animals to survive the vacuum of space. During the European Space Agency’s FOTON-M3 mission, tardigrades were exposed to the harsh conditions of space for ten days. They endured the vacuum, cosmic rays, and solar ultraviolet radiation without any protection. Upon their return to Earth, many of them were revived and even reproduced, showcasing their extraordinary ability to withstand extreme environments.

Image: NASA