Space conditions hamper sperm’s navigation to eggReuters, WASHINGTONAs humankind moves toward the goal of establishing a long-term presence on the moon and Mars, the question of whether reproduction is possible in extraterrestrial environments might no longer be merely hypothetical. New research using simulated microgravity conditions has identified some major challenges. Experiments conducted by scientists in Australia found that microgravity conditions, simulated in a laboratory, disrupt sperm navigation, reduce fertilization rates and, when exposure is prolonged, compromise the quality and survival of early embryos. The new study is the first to show that gravity plays a critical role in sperm’s ability to navigate toward an egg. The function that appears to be disrupted is navigation, the ability to orient and move with purpose toward a destination.

Source: Taipei Times March 31, 2026 23:22 UTC