Animals That Survive in Space
Tardigrades – The Ultimate Survivor
These microscopic “water bears” can survive radiation, freezing, dehydration—and even the vacuum of space.
Cockroaches – Orbital Survivors
Cockroaches have survived low-Earth orbit and cosmic radiation, proving how disturbingly tough they really are.
Nematodes – Microscopic Space Guests
These roundworms endured six months on the ISS and returned to Earth alive, adapting to microgravity conditions.
Brine Shrimp – Dormant but Alive
Artemia (sea monkeys) can be sent in dormant cyst form to space and hatched later—perfectly unharmed.
Bacillus Bacteria – Radiation-Proof
Some Bacillus strains survive direct exposure to space UV and cosmic radiation—an experiment that stunned scientists.
Fruit Flies – First Insects in Space
Launched aboard a V-2 rocket in 1947, these flies were the first animals to experience space and return alive.
Moss Spores – Frozen Yet Thriving
Moss spores exposed to outer space conditions revived after rehydration, surviving extreme cold and radiation.