The prospect of establishing a permanent human presence on the moon and Mars raises intriguing questions about the role animals might play in supporting these extraterrestrial habitats. NASA envisions a permanent lunar outpost by the decade’s end, with Mars exploration on the horizon. As we prepare to extend our reach beyond Earth, the inclusion of animals becomes essential for sustaining ecosystems, performing crucial tasks such as pollination and food production, and offering insights into survival under different gravitational conditions.
While there is currently limited consensus on which animals are best suited for lunar and Martian colonization, scientists acknowledge the challenge posed by reduced gravity. Mars’ gravity, one-third of Earth’s, and the moon’s gravity, one-sixth of Earth’s, present unique hurdles that cannot be altered. This altered gravity may impact the development of muscles and bones in animals, potentially affecting their ability to stand or walk properly. In light of these challenges, simpler animals like insects, crustaceans, and potentially small mammals like mice are considered more robust candidates.
Efficiency and resource conservation are crucial in space settlements. Aquatic animals, particularly fish, are considered viable space livestock due to their buoyancy, which minimizes the impact of gravitational changes on their development. Fish, with their efficient feeding habits and low waste production, are being explored as a high-protein, low-waste food source for space exploration. Insects, such as crickets, are also identified as space livestock, offering protein while requiring less space and water compared to traditional sources. In a closed-loop life-support system, insects can provide essential services like pollination, soil turnover, and detritus cleanup, serving as a backup food supply if crops fail.
For lunar colonization, researchers are exploring tardigrades, known as “water bears.” These resilient creatures have demonstrated their ability to endure extreme conditions, including radiation and the vacuum of space. While tardigrades may not directly contribute to the human ecosystem, studying their resilience in space could inform strategies for other organisms.
Despite the potential benefits, the use of animals in space colonization poses engineering challenges, and human exploration remains years away. However, when the time comes, the animals chosen to join these extraterrestrial habitats will play a vital role in supporting ecosystems for the first human settlers.
