TED: How humans could evolve to survive in space | Lisa Nip

The video explores humanity's evolution and innate desire to explore, highlighting the challenges of space travel, such as microgravity and radiation. It introduces synthetic biology as a tool for genetic engineering to adapt organisms and humans for space environments. The potential of using engineered organisms for terraforming and addressing radiation challenges is discussed. The video concludes with a reflection on human evolution and the ethical considerations of genetic engineering.

What is one reason humanity has become complacent about exploring new territories?

• Abundance of Earth's resources

• Fear of the unknown

• Distractions from modern life

• Lack of technological advancements

What is a major challenge for humans during long-duration space travel?

• Microgravity effects on the body

• Limited communication with Earth

• Excessive food supplies

• Lack of entertainment

How can synthetic biology aid in space exploration?

• By increasing Earth's resources

• By creating new planets

• By engineering organisms to adapt to harsh environments

• By eliminating the need for space suits

What is an example of a genetically modified organism (GMO) that could be useful on Mars?

• A plant that can grow without sunlight

• A plant that can tolerate extreme cold and drought

• A plant that produces its own oxygen

• A plant that requires no water

What is an extremophile?

• A human who enjoys extreme sports

• An organism that thrives in extreme conditions

• A plant that grows in deserts

• A robot designed for space travel

What is the significance of the bacterium Deinococcus radiodurans in space exploration?

• It can generate electricity

• It can grow food on Mars

• It can produce oxygen

• It can withstand high levels of radiation

What is a potential benefit of using synthetic biology to enhance human resilience in space?

• Enhanced strength

• Improved radiation tolerance

• Increased intelligence

• Ability to fly

What is a key ethical concern regarding genetic engineering in humans?

• It may make humans less human

• It will lead to overpopulation

• It is too expensive

• It is not scientifically possible

What is the 'age of volitional evolution'?

• A time when humans can choose their genetic traits

• A time when humans will evolve naturally

• A time when humans will live on Mars

• A time when humans will stop evolving

What is the ultimate question humanity faces regarding its future in space?

• Whether to colonize the Moon

• How to communicate with aliens

• Whether to use or abandon technology

• How to build faster spaceships