Experimental methods for studying microbial survival in extraterrestrial environments.
Microorganisms can be used as model systems for studying biological responses to extraterrestrial conditions; however, the methods for studying their response are extremely challenging. Since the first high altitude microbiological experiment in 1935 a large number of facilities have been developed for short- and long-term microbial exposure experiments. Examples are the BIOPAN facility, used for short-term exposure, and the EXPOSE facility aboard the International Space Station, used for long-term exposure. Furthermore, simulation facilities have been developed to conduct microbiological experiments in the laboratory environment. A large number of microorganisms have been used for exposure experiments; these include pure cultures and microbial communities. Analyses of these experiments have involved both culture-dependent and independent methods. This review highlights and discusses the facilities available for microbiology experiments, both in space and in simulation environments. A description of the microorganisms and the techniques used to analyse survival is included. Finally we discuss the implications of microbiological studies for future missions and for space applications.
Olsson-Francis
Karen
K
Centre for Earth, Planetary, Space and Astronomical Research, The Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA, UK. k.Olsson-Francis@open.ac.uk
Cockell
Charles S
CS
D005118:Extraterrestrial Environment; D050296:Microbial Viability; D008828:Microbiological Techniques / Q000379:methods*; D008829:Microbiology / Q000295:instrumentation; D013026:Space Flight; D018561:Space Simulation