This research opens new possibilities for developing advanced life support systems for astronauts and has potential applications on Earth, such as creating innovative antibacterial treatments and addressing antibiotic resistance.

The research addresses concerns about microbial survival during space travel, especially considering space radiation and microgravity's damaging effects on microbial DNA and behavior.

The partnership included space technology firm ResearchSat and drug delivery company Numedico Technologies, emphasizing innovations in space microbiology and biotech applications.

The study was a collaborative effort involving RMIT University, ResearchSat, and Numedico Technologies, utilizing sophisticated microgravity testing at the RMIT Microscopy and Microanalysis Facility.

Researchers highlight the need for further experiments to test the survival limits of more delicate organisms and to expand microgravity research, aiming to support sustainable human exploration of Mars.

A groundbreaking study has demonstrated that spores of Bacillus subtilis, a bacterium crucial for human health, can survive the extreme conditions of space launch and re-entry, including rapid acceleration, microgravity, and high deceleration forces.

Conducted in Sweden and analyzed at RMIT, this international collaboration advances space microbiology and biotechnology through the use of custom microtubes and advanced analysis facilities.