University of Galway spin-out collaborates with European Space Agency

Aquila Bioscience developing pathogen decontamination technology for safer space exploration

University of Galway spin-out Aquila Bioscience is collaborating with the European Space Agency (ESA) to develop a nature-inspired pathogen decontamination technology for safer space exploration.

Traditional antimicrobial measures, while effective on Earth, present significant limitations in space due to potential toxicity, pathogen resistance, and long-term stability concerns. The unique conditions of spaceflight elevate the risk of infectious diseases by altering both human and microbial physiology.

Aquila Bioscience’s approach to pathogen decontamination is informed by an extensive review of International Space Station microbiome research, which identified key pathogens posing health risks in confined space environments. These include viruses, bacteria and fungi that cause respiratory, gastrointestinal, urinary and skin infections.

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