Chinese scientists have discovered a previously unknown species of microorganism on the Tiangong space station, and it may have developed characteristics that help it survive in space.

Astronauts aboard the Chinese space station Tiangong use sterile wipes to take samples from inside the spacecraft, according to an article published in the International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology. Analysis of swabs taken in May 2023 shows the presence of a strain of Niallia, an organism found in many places on Earth, with DNA different from that of any Earth strain.

This is useful DNA: the article states that it has “structural and functional differences in proteins that may improve biofilm formation, oxidative stress response, and radiation damage repair, thereby aiding its survival in a space environment.”

The name “Niallia tiangongensis” has been proposed to recognise the beetle's place of origin.

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

Since May 2023, 15 Chinese astronauts have spent time aboard Tiangong. Chinese authorities have not reported that any of them are unwell, and state media are happily publicizing the discovery of the bug. This suggests that Niallia tiangongensis will not become the plot line of a B-movie about a “mutant space bug.”

However, it may help us all plan our future flights, as the article begins with the statement: “Understanding the characteristics of microbes during long-term space missions is essential for protecting the health of astronauts and maintaining the functionality of spacecraft.”

Scientists also believe that the discovery could aid microbe control strategies in future space flights and possibly even find applications in agriculture, industry, and medicine. | BGNES