@miol

A fungus that “feeds” on radiation, converting it into energy, has been discovered at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, Interesting Engineering reports. It is noted that the fungus Cladosporium sphaerospermum grows under radiation thanks to melanin and partially absorbs it; notably, its growth on the ISS was 20% more intense than on Earth. Such a “biological shield” can be grown directly in space, making it a lightweight and inexpensive alternative to traditional shielding materials. NASA is already considering the concept of myco-architecture—self-healing mycelium-based structures for future extraterrestrial settlements.

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