This common organism could survive on Mars

A team of Indian researchers has discovered that baker’s yeast can survive extreme Martian-like conditions, involving high-intensity shock waves and toxic perchlorate salts. Baker’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) is best known for its essential role in baking, brewing and biotechnology. Yet this unassuming microorganism could also help scientists understand something much bigger: how life might persist. […]