Far more than just space. Even hard radiation for prolonged periods of time.
This is a breakdown on hard radiation
Survival
Extreme Resilience
Tardigrades, also known as water bears, are renowned for their ability to survive extreme conditions, including high levels of radiation. They can endure radiation doses that are hundreds of times lethal to humans. This remarkable resilience is attributed to several unique biological features.
Mechanisms of Survival
Damage Suppressor Protein (Dsup): Tardigrades produce a protein called Dsup, which binds to DNA and protects it from radiation-induced damage. This protein helps maintain the integrity of their genetic material even under extreme conditions.
DNA Repair Mechanisms: Tardigrades possess advanced DNA repair systems that allow them to fix damage caused by radiation. They can upregulate genes involved in DNA repair, effectively mending their genome after exposure to harmful radiation.
Cryptobiosis: Tardigrades can enter a state called cryptobiosis, where their metabolic processes nearly halt. In this state, they can survive extreme dehydration and radiation, allowing them to endure conditions that would be fatal to most other organisms.
Research Insights
Studies have shown that when tardigrades are exposed to ionizing radiation, they not only survive but can also recover from the damage. This ability has sparked interest in potential applications for human health, particularly in improving the tolerance of cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy.
In summary, tardigrades are exceptional survivors of hard radiation due to their unique proteins and robust DNA repair capabilities.
Interesting to note this is a short list of non microscopic life that can survive both some type hard radiation and near zero vacuum...
Summary
So, the refined list includes:
1 Tardigrades
2 Brine Shrimp
3 Cockroaches
Certain Beatles may or may not come close. They haven't been tested on both.
