NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are conducting a spacewalk outside the ISS to collect samples that may reveal whether microorganisms are released into space from the station. This exploration is vital for understanding human contamination in space, especially as Mars expeditions become a focus. The findings will aid in designing spacesuits and spacecraft that prevent misidentification of potential life on other planets. Planetary protection is emphasized in light of certain missions lacking stringent sterilization methods in the past. Compliance with the Outer Space Treaty is crucial to avoid contaminating extraterrestrial environments.
The data could help determine whether changes are needed to crewed spacecraft, including spacesuits, that are used to explore destinations where life may exist now or in the past.
Planetary protection is a major concern, especially with Mars as a priority for crewed expeditions, as misidentifying life traces is a significant risk.
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