NASA’s Chernobyl Fungus Shield: How Black Mold Could Protect Astronauts in Deep Space

Описание: Could a black fungus from the Chernobyl/Chornobyl nuclear disaster site become NASA’s next big breakthrough for deep space travel?
In this video, we explore how radiation-tolerant fungi like Cladosporium sphaerospermum, first observed inside Chornobyl’s damaged Reactor Four, are able to colonize highly radioactive walls and ceilings and may even be attracted to ionizing radiation. We break down the science of radiosynthesis, where melanin-rich fungi convert powerful ionizing radiation into usable energy, growing faster when exposed to radioactive environments compared to normal conditions.
You’ll learn how experiments on the International Space Station (ISS) showed that this fungus not only grows better under cosmic radiation but can also reduce the amount of radiation that reaches sensors placed behind it, hinting at a future biological radiation shield for astronauts. We also look at NASA’s “myco-architecture” concept: living fungal-based habitats on the Moon or Mars that could be grown on-site, self-regenerate, and cut down the cost of launching heavy metal shielding from Earth.
Finally, we connect this cutting-edge research to current events around the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone, where Ukrainian radiation defense units continue to monitor the damaged reactor shelter after recent attacks, highlighting why understanding radiation and new protective technologies matters more than ever.
If you’re interested in space exploration, astrobiology, nuclear science, or futuristic space habitats, this video will give you a clear, accessible overview of how a seemingly simple black fungus might help keep future astronauts safe on the journey to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.