Study Finds ISS's Sterile Environment May Harm Astronauts' Health

Research reveals the lack of microbial diversity on the ISS could weaken immune systems and suggests introducing beneficial microbes.

The International Space Station (ISS) has significantly lower microbial diversity compared to Earth environments, with most microbes originating from human skin.
Astronauts on the ISS often experience immune dysfunction, skin rashes, and reactivation of dormant viruses, potentially linked to the station's overly sterile conditions.
Researchers propose introducing beneficial environmental microbes, such as those found in soil and water, to improve astronaut health without compromising hygiene.
The study, which involved swabbing 803 surfaces on the ISS, found that cleaning products and disinfectants are prevalent, further reducing microbial diversity.
Future space habitats could benefit from fostering microbial ecosystems that mimic Earth's natural environments to support long-term human health in space.