A report describes experiments that were performed to isolate and characterize microbes that survive conditions of controlled circulation of air, desiccation, low nutrient concentrations, and moderately high temperatures in a spacecraft-assembly facility. These conditions are more severe than those to which the natural strains of the same microbial species are ordinarily exposed. This study is part of continuing research on related issues of (1) efficacy of sterilization (e.g., by use of H2O2 and/or heat) of spacecraft to be used in planetary exploration, (2) the use of selected microbes as indicators of the effectiveness of sterilization, and (3) the feasibility of commercial utilization of enzymes produced by microbes that tolerate severe conditions.
This work was done by Kasthuri Venkateswaran of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
To obtain a copy of the report, "Isolation and Characterization of Hydrogen Peroxide Resistant, Thermotolerant, and Halotolerant Microbes from a Spacecraft Assembly Facility," access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free on-line at www.nasatech.com/tsp under the Bio-Medical category.
NPO-20980
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Spacecraft-Facility Microbes Tolerate H2O2 NaCI, and Heat
(reference NPO-20980) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document presents a study conducted by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) focusing on the resilience of microbes found in spacecraft assembly facilities. The research highlights the ability of these microorganisms to survive extreme environmental conditions, including high temperatures, desiccation (drying out), and high salt concentrations. This resilience raises important considerations for planetary protection and sterilization protocols in space exploration.
The study emphasizes the significance of understanding microbial survival mechanisms, particularly in the context of preventing contamination of other celestial bodies during missions. The microbes studied are not only capable of enduring harsh conditions but also possess unique biochemical properties that could be harnessed for various applications. For instance, the enzymes produced by these resilient microbes have potential commercial uses, ranging from industrial processes to biotechnological innovations.
The findings underscore the importance of thorough microbial monitoring and control in spacecraft assembly environments to ensure compliance with planetary protection standards. By studying these extremophiles, researchers aim to develop more effective sterilization methods that can be applied to spacecraft and instruments before they are launched into space.
Overall, the document highlights the dual significance of these microbes: their role in advancing our understanding of life’s adaptability in extreme environments and their potential contributions to technology and industry. The research not only informs NASA's sterilization practices but also opens avenues for future studies on microbial life in extraterrestrial settings, enhancing our knowledge of life's possibilities beyond Earth.
In summary, the study conducted by JPL sheds light on the resilience of microbes in spacecraft assembly facilities, their survival strategies under extreme conditions, and their potential applications in both planetary protection and biotechnology. This research is crucial for ensuring the integrity of space missions while also exploring the practical benefits that these hardy organisms can offer.
