Bacterial adaptation to space environment (BASE)

Persons :

• Dr.  LEYS Natalie - Belgian Nuclear Research Centre ()
  Coordinator of the project
  Financed belgian partner
  Duration: 1/1/2006-31/12/2008
  
• Prof. dr.  MAHILLON Jacques - Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain)
  Financed belgian partner
  Duration: 1/1/2006-31/12/2008
  
• Dr.  WATTIEZ Ruddy - Université de Mons (UMONS)
  Financed belgian partner
  Duration: 1/1/2006-31/12/2008
  
• Prof.  CORNELIS Pierre - Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)
  Financed belgian partner
  Duration: 1/1/2006-31/12/2008
  

Description :

The main objective of the BASE experiment is to study how bacteria cope with and adapt to the different space flight environmental parameters (e.g. microgravity, cosmic radiation, space electromagnetism, space vibrations). BASE is needed to assess how space flight conditions might influence the bacterial potential to contaminate and biodeteriorate the space habitat (biodegradation & biocorrosion of structural materials), to endanger crew health, or their function in waste recycling or food production systems.

Satellite(s) or flight opportunity(ies):

ISS


Field of research:

Life Science: Molecular and Cell Biology