Overview

• Astronauts on the ISS often suffer from health issues such as skin rashes, fungal infections, and weakened immune responses.
• A study published in the journal 'Cell' links these problems to the overly sterile environment aboard the ISS, which lacks exposure to natural microbes.
• Analysis of over 800 surface samples from the ISS revealed a scarcity of environmental microbes essential for immune system support.
• Current cleaning protocols use disinfectants that eliminate beneficial bacteria, leaving only human skin microbes and chemical residues.
• Scientists propose introducing specific beneficial microbes to the ISS to promote astronaut health without compromising hygiene.