Microbial Colonization of Space Stations

Introduction

Long-term space station missions to date include Salyut, Almaz, Skylab, Mir, ISS (International Space Station), and Tiangong, with the latter two still ongoing. These expeditions demonstrate that space stations support a diverse microbial community. While most microbes are not harmful, routine microbial monitoring onboard space stations is still essential in preventing material biodeterioration[2] and maintaining crew health[3]. As currently identified, these microorganisms originate from Earth, with main source coming from crewmembers themselves and from materials manufactured on ground. [4] Environmental monitoring is important in identifying microbe and providing data for future studies in attempt to minimize microbial threat to crewmembers’ performance and spacecrafts’ health.

Physical Environment

Microorganisms exist in the portable water, ventilating air, and on surfaces of space stations. [4] While these microorganisms share the same living space as the crewmembers, the crewmembers themselves also serve as incubators for various microbes. [5] Researchers have identified several strains of bacteria and fungi as opportunistic pathogen that may pose threats to crewmember. (refer to Key Microorganism section) Moreover, they have also identified the type of microbes responsible for biodegradation of structural materials. [6] (refer to Biodegradation section)

References

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