Warning! Spoilers for Alien #6 ahead!
In the latest issue of Alien comic series, the newest Xenomorph species - the Alpha - gains a new canon ability. Alien #6 confirms that the Alpha is able to survive in the vacuum of space - though the duration of survival is still unknown.
The Xenomorph from the Alien franchise has numerous characteristics, all of which can vary with the type of species it is or the role it plays in a hive. However, with the Disney Fox merger, it isn't fully known which aspects of the franchise's comics are canon. Dark Horse published numerous series since 1988 that added to the lore of the Xenomorphs. The idea that Xenomorphs could survive in space was touched upon by the Alien Isolation - The Digital Series web series that premiered on IGN in 2019. This series aired just before the completion of the merger that gave the Walt Disney Company rights to the Alien franchise.
Alien #6 from Marvel Comics has the creative team of Phillip Kennedy Johnson, Salvador Larroca, Guru Efx, and Vc Clayton Cowles. It is not yet known what Disney and Fox plan to make canon within the series, but anything happening in Marvel's latest comics should certainly be considered so. In this issue, Gabe and Bishop face off against Iris after she shot them at the end of the last issue. Now, it's revealed that Gabe and Bishop survived their violent encounter with Iris, just so Gabe could make ship repairs while facing the ultimate predator in space.
While making repairs to save Danny and get home, Gabe realizes that he isn't alone. Alien Isolation - the Digital Series, in which standard Xenomorphs are shown hibernating in the wreckage of Sevastopol Station - the station that serves as the setting for the Alien: Isolation video game. Now, it's confirmed at least one species of Xenomorph can definitely maneuver in the vacuum of space without any extra tools required.
The issue specifically states that Gabe is wearing magnetic boots, which will let him adhere to the ship's exterior. The Alpha Xenomorph needs no such gear. It's shown walking though how is still unknown - the logical answer could be that it digs its claws into the ship for grip. Alien chapter from Marvel Comics in Alien #6, on sale now.
