Biological entities and DNA-containing masses isolated from the stratosphere-evidence for a non-terrestrial origin
Here, we provide images of a variety of biological entities (BEs) which we have sampled from the stratosphere at heights of between 23 and 27 km. The BEs have unusual morphology and are generally not representatives of known terrestrial organisms. Analysis using SEM and EDX shows that all of the BEs contain only C and O and are not associated on the sampling stubs with pollen, grass or other terrestrial organisms. Images are provided of some of the BEs which were sampled from our first and third successful sampling trips, the second trip isolated inorganic micrometeorites, but not BEs. We conclude that the evidence points to a space origin for these stratosphere-derived BEs. Clumps of stratospheric material with individual diameters of 10–30 μm were also isolated in a sterile manner from a height of 41 km. The masses showed no obvious morphology, but stained positive for DNA and are therefore considered to be biological. We suggest that, like the BEs, the masses are arriving to the stratosphere from space...