Stamets recently took on a new mission: to boldly go where no tardigrade has gone before… to Portugal! His orders were clear—explore, learn some Portuguese, and report back with photos.

Thankfully, he wasn’t alone. Ensign JG Alice Seale-Foynes of the USS Liberty Belle took charge of the travel arrangements, making sure Stamets was sun-ready at Dublin Airport. Her keen attention to detail and interstellar fashion ensured that our plush science officer was both stylish and protected.

Once aboard the shuttlecraft (a civilian transport marked amusingly with the same shamrock logo as the USS Liberty Belle), Stamets squeezed into a crowded seat among fellow stuffed companions. Space was tight, but spirits were high.

Portugal offered the perfect setting for scientific observation. A number of lifeforms were encountered, including butterflies (or as Stamets now proudly says, “boboleta”), tropical birds, and aquatic mammals. The dolphin interaction was a highlight—an unforgettable experience shared with Commodore Phyllis Seale-Foynes and Ensign Alice.

There was no shortage of shore leave fun either. Stamets enjoyed plenty of sun by the pool, took in the resort views, and even tried on a pair of oversized sunglasses to blend in with the locals. He remained curious and observant throughout the entire mission, proving that even a tardigrade on holiday keeps science at heart.

With his travel log full and plush limbs a little sun-kissed, Stamets is nearly ready to beam home. It’s been a fantastic away mission—and we can’t wait to hear about your own adventures soon. Until then… stay curious, and keep exploring!

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