Title: European Space Agency Funds Study to Tackle Microbial Stank in Astronauts’ Spacesuits
In a bid to ensure the health and comfort of astronauts during future space missions, the European Space Agency (ESA) has commissioned a study to combat the issue of microbial stank in their spacesuits. The study, called BACTeRMA, is part of the larger Planetary Exploration Textiles (PExTEx) project led by the Austrian Space Forum.
As preparations for the upcoming Artemis missions gain momentum, maintaining the cleanliness of spacesuit interiors has become a priority. However, the challenge lies in washing these interiors in space, which is further complicated by the fact that astronauts will be sharing the suits.
Traditional anti-microbial agents such as silver and copper have been utilized to combat microbial growth, but they have shown potential drawbacks. These agents can irritate the astronauts’ skin and tarnish over time. To explore alternative solutions, scientists are now focusing on chemical compounds known as “secondary metabolites,” which are produced by certain microbes and possess antibiotic qualities.
The BACTeRMA team is currently conducting tests using a range of “biocidal” materials in a specially designed spacesuit simulator. These materials are being tested against radiation, moondust, and even human sweat. The goal is to identify materials that can effectively eliminate microbial growth and odor-causing bacteria.
If successful, the prototype textiles developed through the study may soon be deployed in a simulated Mars mission in Armenia next year. This real-life trial will provide valuable insights into the materials’ effectiveness and their ability to withstand the harsh conditions of space operations.
The findings from the study could prove pivotal in maintaining hygiene aboard crewed Artemis missions, which are expected to last for approximately a month. This approach offers a potential breakthrough in addressing long-standing challenges related to space hygiene.
While issues surrounding space hygiene are not new, the advancements made under the BACTeRMA project are set to revolutionize the way astronauts combat microbial stank within their spacesuits. With the support of the ESA and the collaborative efforts of the international scientific community, future space missions hold the promise of improved comfort and well-being for astronauts as they explore the cosmos.
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