China finds a previously unknown microbe in space

Chinse scientists have found a previously unknown species of microbe on the nation’s Tiangong space station, and it may have evolved characteristics that help it to survive in space.

As explained in a paper published in the International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology, astronauts aboard China’s Tiangong space station use sterile wipes to take samples of the craft’s interior. Analysis of swabs taken in May 2023 turned up a strain of Niallia– an organism found in many places on earth – with different DNA than any terrestrial strain.

It’s useful DNA, too: The paper states it has “structural and functional differences in proteins … which may enhance biofilm formation, oxidative stress response and radiation damage repair, thereby aiding its survival in the space environment.”

The paper proposes the name “Niallia tiangongensis” to recognize the bug’s place of origin.

China launched the core module of its space station in April 2021, and its first crew arrived in June of the same year. Niallia tiangongensis was found less than two years later.

15 taikonauts have spent time aboard Tiangong since May 2023. Chinese authorities have not said any are the worse for wear and State Media is happily reporting discovery of the bug, suggesting Niallia tiangongensis won’t sustain a B-movie “mutant space bug” plotline.

It may, however, help us all to plan a future among the starts as the paper opens with the observation: “Understanding the characteristics of microbes during long-term space missions is essential for safeguarding the health of astronauts and maintaining the functionality of spacecraft.”

Chinese state media reports that scientists also think the discovery might help microbial control strategies for future spaceflights, and possibly even have applications in agriculture, industry and medicine. ®