Invertebrate Astronauts Make Space History | Wired Science | Wired.com
Not the cutest critters I've ever seen, but still fascinating:
It’s one small step for Tardigrada, and one giant leap for the animal kingdom: The toughest creature on Earth has survived a trip into space.
A great finding. Thank you for sharing, Soyeun!
My new spirit animal. Not only do I want to feel indestructible, I want to gain that strength with a calm zen like attitude whilst drinking water off of moss.
I don't know, Soyeun. Tardigrada doesn't look happy in that image.
I choose to see a smile of contentment which is different than a Hollywood grin.
"Tardigrades look a bit like a bear crossed with a sweet potato. In fact, they look huggable — a rare quality among microscopic animals. They have chubby bodies and eight legs, from which curved, bear-like claws protrude."
Biologist Byron Adams, professor at Brigham Young University
http://www.ouramazingplanet.com/2177-weird-wildlife-real-animals-antarctica-penguins.html
I can see it now!
It looks as huggable as a body pillow. :)
Thank you for sharing this fascinating creature with me, Soyeun.