Life in space has always been exciting for scientists, but no one expected to find a brand-new microbe that’s never been seen on Earth. A small bacteria called niallia tiangongensis was discovered aboard China’s Tiangong space station, raising many interesting questions—and some concerns.
This tiny space bug might help us understand how microbes survive in space. But it could also become a risk if it affects astronauts or equipment in the future.
How Scientists Found the Space Bacteria
The bacteria was discovered during a research program on the China Space Station, where scientists were collecting swab samples from living areas. These samples were taken in May 2023 by astronauts working on the CHAMP (China Space Station Habitation Area Microbiome Program).
Dr. Junxia Yuan, a scientist from the Shenzhou Space Biotechnology Group in Beijing, identified the new bacteria after doing genetic and chemical tests.
Since many microbes on space stations come from humans or cargo, scientists are trying to find out whether this bacteria came from Earth or changed in space due to the conditions like low gravity and high radiation.
What Makes This Bacteria So Special?
The new space bacteria is very tiny and shaped like a rod. But that’s not all—it also forms spores, which help it survive in harsh conditions like extreme heat, dryness, or even radiation. This makes it strong enough to live in space.
Researchers also noticed that niallia tiangongensis breaks down gelatin in a strange way, something that might help it get nutrients when food is limited. It may even form biofilms, sticky layers that protect bacteria from stress, making it harder to kill.
Can It Affect Astronaut Health?
Astronauts already deal with a lot in space—radiation, weak bones due to zero gravity, and mental stress. If a new bacteria grows fast in space or becomes infectious, it could cause health problems.
Some scientists say niallia tiangongensis is similar to niallia circulans, a bacteria that can cause infections in people with weak immune systems. It’s still too early to know if the space version is dangerous, but more testing is being done.
Could the Bacteria Damage Space Equipment?
Yes, it could. Past missions have shown that bacteria on surfaces can build up and damage machines. If this new microbe is tough to clean or forms sticky films, it could harm life-support systems, control panels, or filters.
Engineers might need to create new cleaning methods or protective materials for future missions if this bacteria proves difficult to remove.
Many Questions Still Remain
One big question is whether this microbe was created in space or simply came from Earth and adapted. It seems strong enough to survive many weeks in orbit, but no one is sure yet.
This shows how much we still don’t know about the billions of microbes that exist. Scientists believe there are still many unknown species that we haven’t discovered—even here on Earth!
What’s Next in the Research?
Scientists will now study how this bacteria deals with stress, like radiation, and how it repairs itself. They’re also looking into whether its gelatin-eating ability could help in industries like biotechnology.
Although there is no confirmed danger yet, space agencies around the world are watching this closely to protect astronauts and equipment in future space missions.