When we explore space, we expose ourselves and our planet to the risk of an invasion. However, when we talk about this risk, we are not really thinking about some alien life form attacking humans. We are considering contamination on a microbiological level that can threaten our species, both animal and plants. The danger is real, because it is highly unlikely existing species can adapt and defend from such invader that is completely new to this planet. The comprehensive plan to protect the planet from this concerning scenario needs to be put in place.
Key Takeaways:
- The concern is of harm coming from microbiological contamination from extraterrestrial environments.
- Describe considerable caution, bacterial strains have been isolated in NASA clean rooms used to assemble spacecraft.
- Invasion biologists have not yet been involved in Committee on Space Research planning, but that should change soon.
“However, outlined within the article is a possible approach to addressing this alarming scenario: the emergent field of invasion science, in which practitioners study the causes and consequences of organism introductions beyond their evolved ranges.”
Read more: https://scienceblog.com/526698/alien-invasions-and-the-need-for-planetary-biosecurity/
References:
- Science Blog (Website)
- JPLraw (YouTube Channel)
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