A world-first study led by RMIT University has demonstrated that Bacillus subtilis, a bacterium crucial for human health, can survive the extreme conditions of space launch and re-entry. This finding could revolutionize long-term space missions and biotechnology.
A trailblazing study led by researchers from RMIT University has shown that Bacillus subtilis, a bacterium essential for human health, can endure the extreme conditions of a space launch and re-entry. This significant breakthrough holds promising implications for future space exploration missions and biotechnological advancements.
As space agencies across the globe make plans to send crews to Mars within the next few decades, this discovery could be vital. Sustaining human life on Mars means ensuring that essential microbes, which support health, do not perish en route.
The research, published in the journal npj Microgravity, revealed that Bacillus subtilis spores can withstand the rapid acceleration, short-duration microgravity and rapid deceleration experienced during space travel.
“Our research showed an important type of bacteria for our health can withstand rapid gravity changes, acceleration and deceleration,” co-author Elena Ivanova, a distinguished professor at RMIT University, said in a news release. “It’s broadened our understanding on the effects of long-term spaceflight on microorganisms that live in our bodies and keep us healthy.”
For the study, the scientists launched the bacterial spores aboard a sounding rocket, subjecting them to extreme conditions such as rapid changes in gravity and high-speed deceleration.
The rocket achieved a maximum acceleration of about 13 g and reached an altitude of approximately 260 kilometers, where it experienced microgravity for over six minutes.
Upon re-entry, the payload faced forces up to 30 g and was subjected to spinning at high velocities.
Despite these rigorous conditions, the spores showed no changes in their ability to grow and maintained their structural integrity. This suggests that microbes essential for human health can survive the journey to Mars and other distant destinations.
“This research enhances our understanding of how life can endure harsh conditions, providing valuable insights for future missions to Mars and beyond,” added RMIT space science expert Gail Iles, an associate professor and co-author of the study.
Beyond its implications for space travel, the research could have broad applications in biotechnology. Understanding the resilience of microorganisms can lead to innovations in developing new antibacterial treatments and combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
“Potential applications of this research extend far beyond space exploration,” Ivanova added. “They include developing new antibacterial treatments and enhancing our ability to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria.”
The project was a collaborative effort between RMIT University, space tech firm ResearchSat and drug delivery company Numedico Technologies.
The Swedish Space Corporation hosted the launch, which featured a custom 3D-printed microtube holder designed by ResearchSat and RMIT.
With these encouraging results, the research team now seeks further funding to advance life sciences research in microgravity, potentially leading to improvements in drug delivery and discovery.
Source: RMIT University