Can viruses live in space? That’s what our listener Julian wants to know. It turns out, that’s a question that scientists are asking, too! Kathryn Bywaters is one of the scientists starting the search for viruses in space. She believes that finding viruses might be the easiest way to discover life on other planets. But first, we have to learn more about what a virus is, and how to find them. Discover why viruses are like the “message in a bottle” of alien life, and how you could become a real life alien virus hunter on Mars.

Hear more from Kathryn about viruses in space! Listen to our special bonus interview episode available for patrons who pledge $1 or more a month on patreon.com/tumblepodcast.

Visit our website, sciencepodcastforkids.com, for more resources to learn about the search for life and viruses in our solar system.

Parents! This week, we're recommending Science Vs, a science podcast for adults! Find it wherever you listen to podcasts.