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Title
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When cells meet the stars I
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Description
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As humanity prepares to venture back to the Moon, understanding how space affects our biology has never been more important. This striking image reveals megakaryocytes, specialized bone marrow cells that manufacture platelets crucial for blood clotting, grown aboard the International Space Station. After their orbital journey, these cells were preserved, returned to Earth, and examined through scanning electron microscopy with false-color enhancement. The vivid magenta highlights an intricate network of proplatelet extensions, thread-like structures where individual platelets form and bud off, captured in exquisite detail. This research helps scientists decode how microgravity and cosmic radiation influence cellular behavior, essential knowledge for safeguarding astronaut health during extended missions beyond Earth's protective embrace.
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Date
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2026-01-20
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Creator
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Schwertz, Hansjorg
