They may be no bigger than a pinhead, but tardigrades are among the hardiest creatures on Earth—and the cutest! Despite their miniature bear appearance, tardigrades have impressive abilities that pique scientists' curiosity. They can survive extreme temperatures, lack of oxygen, levels of radiation, and crushing pressure that would kill most other animals. From the vacuum of space to the forests of Italy, to labs in Paris, Tokyo, and Wyoming, the elusive tardigrades reveal their secrets. From knowledge revealed through simple observation to the results of more ambitious research projects, tardigrades contribute to the development of life, medical, and applied sciences.