Moon can save the dying species on Earth. Here's how

Human beings are looking at the Moon with a lot of hope. They want to build a base on the Moon, set up railway tracks and use it as a bumping point to go to Mars. Now another fascinating idea surrounding our satellite is in the works. Scientists are planning to save endangered animals and other species by sending them to the Moon.

They want to create a “biorepository” on the Moon which will include frozen biological material of different species. Under the plan, liquid nitrogen will be used to cryogenically freeze DNA, seeds, spores and even cells or tissues.These frozen materials will be then transported to the Moon aboard a rocket ship where they will be placed at its north and south poles. The temperatures in these regions are around -180 degrees to -230 degrees Celsius. This will ensure the material remains frozen until man finds a way to revive these species.

Worryingly, over onemillion species are currently at risk of extinction, and this plan, at least in theory, provides a way to save these species.

Why Moon and not Earth?

The Moon scores over Earth for saving these specimens primarily because of its temperature. A life bank on the moon wouldn't need artificial cooling techniques to be implemented as the lunar poles are extremely cold with a freezing temperature of -410°F (-246°C). On Earth, such methods would require a huge investment, whereas on the Moon, once the specimens are transported, no extra costs would be incurred.

Also Read: Continents have been mysteriously rising for years now. Scientists now know why

The Moon is also a safe spot considering it doesn't experience any natural disasters. Besides, the lack of human control of any form means there won't be any uproar about who owns the specimen. There would also be no risk of contamination and degradation. Thick layers of lunar regolith will also ensure protection against radiation.

WATCH:Moon Drifting Away From Earth Approximately 3.8 Centimeter Per Year - Study

The idea also fits into the long-term plan of humans to colonise the Moon and move beyond it. Cryopreservation methods will become more advanced in the process, and the effects of cosmic radiation on biological materials will also become known. These things will help humans devise methods and technology that can help in space travel.

As part of the project, scientists have frozen fin samples from the starry goby fish. The fins are helping scientists understand the challenges they might face to preserve life in the harsh conditions of space. Later, these frozen specimens will travel to the International Space Station (ISS) and face the harsh conditions of space first-hand.