When we imagine what aliens look like in real life, we tend to think of skinny humanoids with big heads. However, as scientists begin to discover exciting new life forms here on Earth, the definition of "alien" is beginning to change.
SCIENTISTS DISCOVER ALIENS IN EARTH'S OCEANS
Scientists have just discovered a new animal on Earth that is tougher than most. In these creatures (called tardigrades), they found a special gene that helps them survive extreme temperatures. Tardigrades can survive boiling, freezing and even radiation. Efforts are now being made to grow human cells that have this same protective protein. Given that life on other planets could have extreme conditions, perhaps aliens resemble tardigrades.
SCIENTISTS FIND WATER BEARS FROM SPACE: ARE THEY ALIENS?
Tardigrades are microscopic creatures more commonly known as water bears. In 2007, the European Space Agency's satellite brought thousands of water bears into the vacuum of space. As a result, they became "Tardis", tardigrades in space. As part of the project, scientists discovered that not only did these space bears survive up there, but that they were able to reproduce after returning to Earth. If these organisms can survive the harsh conditions of space, it's quite possible that similar microscopic aliens could do the same.
SCIENTISTS USE ALIENS TO HELP HUMANS
In addition to showing their amazing resilience, researchers are trying to find other uses for tardigrades. Tardigrades are much more resistant to X-rays than human cells, and researchers believe they have many more tricks up their sleeve in the future. As they continue their research, they believe that these special genes can make the storage and transport of human cells safer. In addition, they may protect delicate human skin from damage. Hopefully, this will be useful when humans live in extremely harsh environments, such as on Mars and beyond.