Nano-armatures ensure insects survive in a vacuum

One of the many problems of sending humans into space is the impossibility of survival in a vacuum. However, according to Science, a new technique, successfully applied to mosquito larvae, may be a hope of a solution to (at least) this complication in the future. According to the publication, the method is to create nano-armor by bombarding the animals with electrons.

Scientists at Hamamatsu University School of Medicine in Japan have found that the energy of electrons causes the surface molecules in the larvae to stick together, forming a layer 50 to 100 nanometers thick enough to prevent liquids or gases escape.

As the researchers described, the layer even resisted touch, acting as a kind of space nanoroupage. However, since not all creatures rely on the same molecular composition on their skin, scientists have decided to experiment with other substances, hoping to find one that mimics the observed effect on larvae.

Temporary option

The researchers found that a relatively common product called Polysorbate 20, used in the production of various types of products - from bullet detergents and lollipops, for example - has a similar temporary effect. Scientists bathed the larvae with this substance, and the bugs survived vacuum conditions for 30 minutes. The next step is to find a way to protect creatures from radiation.

In fact, the technique was not designed to create protective alternatives for space travelers, but rather to allow researchers to observe living insect organs under a microscope. Radiation from these devices can be deadly, and the intention is to find a way to keep specimens alive.

However, while it is not yet possible to create the same kind of armor for humans, at the moment the technique may allow for the recruitment of "astronaut larvae" for all sorts of crazy space experiments - in the future, who knows?