The surface of the International space station may be the temporary Keeper of the biomaterial of extraterrestrial origin. This was reported by the press service of Roscosmos.
This probability was established in the course of space experiment “Test” experts industry research Institute TsNIIMash. The scientists also noted that the station is a universal tool for exobiological studies.
Space experiment “Test” has been held since 2010. The astronauts collected 19 samples of dust from the surface of the ISS, when left on the surface of the station. It is noted that for the first time in history was the possibility of regular delivery of samples of fine sediment from the surface of the station in the natural state. This, in turn, gave the possibility of multiple and timely obtain clarifying data on the chemical and biological composition of cosmic dust.
Laboratory tests confirmed the presence on the surface of the ISS fine sediment meteorologo substances. Unlike falling on the Earth’s surface, micrometeorites and cometary dust on the ISS can contain organic nutrients, as they are not burned during the flight through the atmosphere. Experts can distinguish microorganisms of terrestrial origin, which accidentally fell on the surface of the ISS, from alien. However, it is a difficult task and the solutions are being worked on.