Space Travel Pathogen Protection

Humans are constantly exposed to pathogens, and the unique conditions of space flight increase susceptibility to infectious diseases by altering human and microbial physiology. Current antimicrobial measures, such as biocides, silver, iodine, ozone, and electrochemical methods, have benefits and drawbacks, often leading to pathogen mutations, sterilization tolerance, and potential antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Therefore, there is a critical need for safer and more effective decontamination measures that are non-toxic and stable over long periods in space. Traditional decontamination agents like alcohol, bleach, peroxides, and ammonium compounds are unsuitable for skin use due to their harshness and potential toxicity.

Aquila Bioscience’s nature-inspired Pathogen Capturing Technology (PCT) addresses this gap with a non-toxic, biodegradable solution for pathogen decontamination of both physical and biological surfaces. PCT uses materials with protein-carbohydrate ligands to capture and remove pathogens without harming the skin. While effective on hard surfaces, this technology needs adaptation for skin decontamination in space missions, using biodegradable cellulosic material to address payload weight and waste constraints—two critical issues in space exploration.