Presentation
Stratospheric Studies of H. exemplaris
NCUR 2022
(2022)
Abstract
Tardigrades are microscopic invertebrates that can survive extreme environments, including outer space. The species studied, H. exemplaris, was sent into the stratosphere using a high altitude balloon. The balloon reached 30 km above Earth’s surface, passing through the Regener-Pfotzer maximum (R-P max). The R-P max is a level of peak radiation between 15 and 25 km above Earth’s surface. The majority of particle collisions resulting from galactic cosmic ray showers (GCRS) occur at or below the R-P max. GCRS occur when energetic particles collide with Earth’s atmosphere. Near space conditions, including low temperature and pressure, were experienced at these altitudes, and closely monitored by a variety of instrumentation. No physical changes were observed between the flown tardigrades and the control group, suggesting that recorded flight conditions had minimal effects on the tardigrades. By understanding the extent of extreme conditions that tardigrades can survive, further research can explore the physiological responses.
Disciplines
Publication Date
Spring April 5, 2022
Citation Information
Maddie Ross, Margaret Medini, Anisa Tapper, Erick Agrimson, et al.. "Stratospheric Studies of H. exemplaris" NCUR 2022 (2022) Available at: http://works.bepress.com/erick-agrimson/39/