Researchers estimate that a 21-centimeter-thick layer could meaningfully reduce radiation exposure on Mars. However, experts caution that substantial engineering challenges remain, including maintaining fungal growth in microgravity and developing containment systems.Despite decades of research, scientists have yet to definitively prove radiosynthesis. No one has demonstrated carbon fixation dependent on ionizing radiation or identified a complete energy-harvesting pathway. "Actual radiosynthesis, however, remains to be shown," notes a team led by Stanford University engineer Nils Averesch https://www.perplexity.ai/page/chernobyl-fungus-shows-promise-6cKxxCkQQVumMFWZS1t1Dw