Ryugu sample study reveals microbes on Earth colonizing asteroid material
A study published in Meteoritics & Planetary Science has reported the discovery of terrestrial microorganisms in a sample returned from the asteroid Ryugu by Japan’s Hayabusa2 mission. According to researchers, these microbes, identified as originating on Earth, had colonized the sample after it returned to Earth in December 2020. The findings have highlighted concerns about the resilience of terrestrial life forms and the challenges of preserving uncontaminated alien samples for scientific purposes. analysis.
Microbial growth observed on asteroid sample
According to Space.com reportit was confirmed by Dr. Matthew Genge, planetary scientist at Imperial College London, that microorganisms were detected on the asteroid fragment. Dr. Genge stated during an interview with the publication that microbes were observed to appear on the rock and multiply before dying. It was made clear that the bacteria were not alien, as growth only occurred after exposure to Earth’s atmosphere.
According to reports, the sample, which was initially tested using nano-X-ray computed tomography, showed no signs of biological presence. However, after exposure to Earth’s environment, rod- and filament-shaped structures that resembled bacteria were identified. The microbial population reportedly increased from 11 to 147 within a week, with their rapid colonization attributed to the resilient nature of Earth’s microbes.
Implications for space exploration
The study noted that soil contamination poses risks to planetary exploration. Dr. Genge emphasized that microorganisms capable of surviving on extraterrestrial material could complicate future missions aimed at detecting extraterrestrial life. He told Space.com that it shows how easily microbes on Earth can colonize foreign materials.
The study’s findings underscore the need for strict planetary protection protocols. These measures, designed to minimize biological contamination of extraterrestrial environments, are being implemented to ensure the integrity of future missions.
According to sources, further studies on Ryugu samples and material from asteroid Bennu are planned, with scientists aiming to limit the contamination risks observed in this study.
