Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #31089: Breathing Clean in Space: Analyzing Particle Filters on the ISS

Living in space brings unique challenges, and one of the biggest is maintaining clean, breathable air. The International Space Station High Efficiency Particle Filter Analysis experiment dives deep into how well air filters perform in microgravity, ensuring the health and safety of astronauts aboard the ISS.

This study, led by Robert Friedman at the J. Craig Venter Institute, focused on analyzing the High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters used on the space station. These filters are essential—they remove airborne particles, including microbes and dust, from the cabin air. On Earth, HEPA filters are common in hospitals and clean rooms, but space introduces a different set of conditions.

Over several expeditions (25/26, 27/28, 31/32, and 35/36), used filters were collected from the ISS and returned to Earth for detailed analysis. Scientists examined what particles were captured, how microbial communities developed over time, and how efficiently the filters functioned.

One fascinating aspect of this study is its implications for biosecurity. The ISS is a closed environment, so any microbial buildup can affect crew health or contaminate experiments. Understanding which microbes thrive in space, and how filters combat them, is crucial.

The experiment also contributes to future mission planning. Whether it’s a trip to the Moon, Mars, or beyond, we need to ensure clean air in spacecraft and habitats. This study helps us choose the right filtration systems and predict maintenance needs.

Overall, the HEPA filter analysis isn’t just about keeping astronauts comfortable—it’s about building sustainable life-support systems for the next frontier of human space exploration.

Join the Agnirva Space Internship Program

Get certified with over 100 hours of immersive, self-paced learning in astronomy, cosmology, space technology, and climate science through the Agnirva Space Internship Program. Join, complete virtual projects, and earn a digital certificate to showcase your space fluency in interviews, resumes, and beyond.