This cluster of papers explores the adaptations of tardigrades, also known as water bears, to extreme environments such as desiccation, space exposure, and high radiation. It covers topics such as anhydrobiosis, genomic adaptations, oxidative stress, and the role of specific molecules like LEA proteins and trehalose in their survival. The research sheds light on the remarkable resilience of tardigrades and their potential applications in medicine and astrobiology.