Scientists are investigating the potential of certain helpful fungi to turn nutrient-poor soil from the Moon and Mars into a substance that could support plant life. This research, published in Frontiers in Astronomy and Space Sciences, suggests that fungi could assist plants in accessing necessary nutrients and surviving in the tough conditions of space. The study focuses on overcoming the lack of key nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus in regolith, which are vital for plant growth. Researchers from the United States and Brazil looked at types of fungi known to aid plant growth, including those that have been used on the International Space Station. A particular type of fungus, called arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), was highlighted for its ability to form close relationships with plant roots. These fungi act like tiny root extensions, helping plants absorb nutrients more efficiently. The study points out that while this research is promising, more testing is needed to see how well these fungi perform with real lunar and Martian regolith rather than simulated versions of it. If these fungi prove effective, they could help astronauts grow more abundant and reliable crops on the Moon and Mars. This would reduce the need to transport food from Earth, which is costly and logistically challenging. The study mentions several types of fungi, including Trichoderma and various AMF (Glomeromycota), as potential candidates for improving the physical and chemical properties of regolith, making it more suitable for plant growth. This research is part of a broader effort to make long-term space exploration and colonization more feasible by developing sustainable food production methods. Understanding how to use natural processes like those involving fungi could be key to supporting life on other planets. Scientists are continuing to explore these possibilities, hoping to find practical solutions for growing food in the extreme environments of space.