KAUST and NASA discover 26 new bacterial species in spacecraft cleanrooms

Photography: Courtesy of SPA

RIYADH, May 13 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – Researchers from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), in collaboration with NASA and Indian institutions, have identified 26 previously unknown species of bacteria living inside ultra-sterile spacecraft assembly cleanrooms, a breakthrough with significant implications for planetary protection and astrobiology.

The findings, published in the peer-reviewed journal Microbiome, reveal that the bacteria possess genetic traits enabling them to survive in space-like conditions, including extreme desiccation, radiation, and low-nutrient environments. These microbes, categorized as "extremophiles," were able to adapt and reproduce in some of the most controlled environments on Earth.

NASA’s cleanrooms simulate harsh Earth environments such as deep-sea vents, polar ice caps, and arid deserts, in an effort to prevent the accidental transfer of Earth-based life forms into space. Despite these stringent sterilization measures, the study found that microbial life can persist and may even pose a risk to other planets if not properly controlled.

Professor Alexandre Rosado, KAUST lead researcher and member of NASA’s planetary protection task force, stated that genetic sequencing of the newly discovered bacteria improves understanding of how microbial life can survive space missions. He emphasized the importance of this research in avoiding cross-contamination during robotic exploration and future missions to Mars or icy moons such as Europa.

The discovery strengthens ongoing international efforts to develop stricter biosecurity protocols in space exploration and underscores the importance of Saudi-led contributions to global scientific initiatives.