Scientists suggest that the International Space Station's excessive cleanliness could negatively impact astronaut health by creating a sterile environment devoid of beneficial microbes. A study indicates that astronauts experience more immune-related health issues due to a lack of microbial diversity. Future space stations may benefit from introducing environmental microbes found on Earth, which can enhance immune function. Swabbing 803 surfaces on the ISS revealed that human skin is a primary source of microbes, but a variety of beneficial microbes common to Earth were notably absent, leading researchers to advocate for a new approach to hygiene in space.
The study found that the ISS is largely devoid of environmental microbes found in soil and water that are thought to be beneficial to the immune system.
Rodolfo Salido of UCSD suggested fostering diverse microbial communities that better mimic the natural microbial exposures experienced on Earth.
Human skin was the main source of microbes throughout the ISS, with different areas showing varied microbial populations.
There's a big difference between exposure to healthy soil from gardening versus stewing in our own filth.
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