We can send them a filter, or some other item.
Colonizing Space
Imagine if you've ever looked at the water supply on an airplane with suspicion. Now imagine having to trust the water supply in space. Astronauts often drink recycled urine.
A new study, published Monday in Nature journal npj Biofilms and Microbiomes, has found that International Space Stations' drinking water is overflowing with bacteria colonies. The study was led by scientists from Arizona State University. They focused on biofilms that are made up multiple bacteria species. This phenomenon, The Debrief noted, is difficult to understand even in microgravity.
Extra Flavoring
This could improve water quality for future space missions crewmembers, but it doesn't change the fact that there was plenty of bacteria in the ISS water system that scientists could study.
Space station has a water purification system that can recycle water. According to NASA's press release, NASA would need to send 10,000 pounds of water each year to orbit without it.
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The system isn't perfect though, as NASA had plenty to sample from the ISS's water system. Scientists behind this new study were able to choose from a variety of species and colonies, which they then shipped back home between 2008-2015.
The team examined a variety of characteristics, including the ability form mysterious biofilms and antibiotic resistance. They also found that bacteria could pose a real threat to astronauts, especially since the immune system appears to be weaker during space travels.
To determine the exact effects of the bacterial colonies found on the ISS on astronaut health, more research is needed. Experts now have a better understanding of what to look for in basic research about the bacteria's properties.
READ MORE: A New Study Confirms That Drinking Water aboard the International Space Station is a Cesspool. [The Debrief]
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Continue reading: International Space Station: Scientists Set New Goal to Make the ISS Bathroom Less Disgusting
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