A MYSTERIOUS form of bacteria has been discovered aboard China’s space station, with unique abilities that help it survive hundreds of kilometres above the ground.
Scientists found the bacteria, called Niallia tiangongensis, after astronauts swabbed a cabin on the Tiangong orbital outpost in May 2023.
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Researchers from the Shenzhou Space Biotechnology Group and the Beijing Institute of Spacecraft System Engineering say the study of this new bacteria and others is “essential” in protecting astronauts’ health.
While it is related to similar bacteria on Earth, it’s not clear where the new N. tiangongensis came from, or whether it evolved on the station.
It’s possible it arrived on Tiangong in spore form, with at least a few of its distinguishing features in place.
Scientists are still working out if N. tiangongensis poses any threat to astronauts health.
A bacterial cousin on Earth can cause sepsis in immunocompromised patients.
A new study on the bacteria, published in a leading microbiology journal, found the new species can break down gelatin as a source of nitrogen and carbon.
This rare ability allows it to build a protective biofilm shield over itself when conditions become too extreme to survive.
Related bacteria on Earth are able to consume other energy-packed substances for survival – but N. tiangongensis appears to have lost this ability.
N. tiangongensis’ new skill of breaking down gelatin, paired with the deadliness of its Earthbound bacterial cousin, suggests it could pose a risk to health.
Astronauts on the Tiangong space station regularly disinfect surfaces and monitor microorganisms to control the growth of bacteria.
There are also air filtration systems built into the space station to purify the air.
But despite best efforts, astronauts can get sick with microbial infections from space station bacteria – just like they do on Earth.
It cannot be completely prevented, despite the cleaning and monitoring regime, as well as the quarantining of astronauts prior to flight.
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