Space Station Bacterial Mutations Seem Risk-Free

Long stay in space, whether at the International Space Station (ISS) or future long journeys, always requires a lot of research into how organisms will behave - not just humans! If we think that each being evolves differently, how would bacteria evolve in space?

According to previous studies, the bacteria present in ISS are indeed evolving differently from those on Earth, but according to new research, they pose no risk to human health - it is feared that a possible superbug might prevent the colonization of others. planets, so it is important to find out how microgravity, radiation, and poor ventilation conditions would interfere with the evolution of microorganisms.

The study's author, Erica Hartmann of Northwestern University, ponders that such conditions are stressful for any living organism, but that in the case of bacteria does not appear to be influencing the emergence of humans. The bacteria analyzed in the study are of two types: Staphylococcus aureus, which is found on the skin, and Bacillus cereus, found in the soil and digestive system.

They landed on the ISS carried by the astronauts themselves, and although they evolve differently from their relatives who stayed on Earth, they have no trace of superbugs. This is a relief for those who want to get on a spaceship and conquer the world, even on trips that can last for years!