New Bacterium Thrives on China's Tiangong Space Station

Scientists have discovered a new bacterium, Niallia tiangongensis, aboard China's Tiangong space station, which exhibits unique adaptations to the harsh conditions of space such as low gravity, high radiation, and nutrient scarcity. This microbe is capable of breaking down gelatin and forming protective biofilms, making it resilient against radiation and difficult to eliminate, raising concerns about potential health risks to astronauts and the integrity of spacecraft systems. Researchers are investigating whether this bacterium evolved in orbit or originated from Earth's microbial pool, with ongoing genomic studies aimed at understanding its rapid evolution and survival mechanisms. The discovery underscores the broader issue of microbial resilience in controlled environments, as NASA cleanrooms have also revealed extremophiles capable of surviving harsh conditions and possibly space travel. Experts emphasize the urgency of enhanced microbial monitoring and control measures on space missions to mitigate the risks posed by such rapidly evolving and resilient microbes, especially as human space exploration extends to longer and more distant missions. This finding highlights the complex challenges of maintaining astronaut health and spacecraft safety in the face of evolving spaceborne microorganisms.