By Hot Chip Chick Team / August 24, 2024

Throughout Earth’s extensive history, numerous species have disappear, and many others are currently at risk of extinction.

To safeguard Earth’s biodiversity, researchers are advocating for the creation of a lunar biorepository—a secure vault locate on the Moon.

Dr. Mary Hagedorn from the Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute is spearheading the proposal.

The goal is to establish a “passive, enduring storage facility” design to protect some of Earth’s most endanger animal species.

The specimens will undergo cryopreservation, a technique that preserves biological materials by freezing them at extremely low temperatures.

The Moon is an excellent candidate for the plan due to its naturally frigid polar regions, which remain in constant darkness. In these areas, temperatures consistently stay below -321 degrees Fahrenheit.

These samples can be preserve for long durations without the need for human oversight or power sources—two essential requirements for Earth-base storage facilities.

On Earth, vaults are construct in stable, hard-to-reach locations to minimize risk. While this significantly reduces potential dangers, it does not completely eliminate them.

An example of unexpected challenges is the Svalbard Global See Vault, which require refurbishment after an unforeseen thaw in the surrounding permafrost led to water seeping into the entrance tunnel.

A lunar facility is safeguard against common Earthly challenges like natural disasters, climate fluctuations, and geopolitical tensions. With its extremely thin atmosphere, the Moon provides a stable environment free from weather-relate concerns.

To advance the lunar biorepository, the emphasis will be on cryopreserving animal skin samples that contain fibroblast cells.

Fibroblasts can be use to create clones. Researchers have start experimenting with samples from the starry goby, a type of reef fish. Additional species will be introduce in the near future.

One significant challenge in creating a functional lunar vault is ensuring effective transportation. The packaging for lunar samples must be engineer to endure the rigors of space travel.

Addressing the challenge of shielding samples from radiation is crucial. Additionally, creating robust governance frameworks for the facility will be a complex task.

Experts urge countries and organizations worldwide to work together to successfully complete the project.

Looking Ahead: Expanding Partnerships and Testing on Earth and the ISS

The team is set to enhance their partnerships and conduct additional testing both on Earth and aboard the International Space Station. Despite the anticipate challenges, researchers stress the critical need for proactive measures to advance their objectives.

The authors state, “Due to numerous human-induce factors, many species and ecosystems are experiencing increasing destabilization and extinction risks at a pace that outstrips our capacity to preserve them in their natural habitats.”

The study was publish in Bio Science.