Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #31337: Clean Water in Space: Monitoring Microbes to Keep Astronauts Safe

Water is essential for life—and even more so aboard a spacecraft. The 'Development of the On-Board Monitoring System for Microorganisms in Potable Water on Manned Spacecraft' experiment ensures that astronauts have access to safe, clean drinking water.

Led by Dr. Takashi Yamazaki and developed by JAXA, this initiative focuses on creating a reliable, compact system to detect microbial contamination in real-time. Unlike Earth, where we have access to comprehensive laboratory tools, space missions require portable, fast, and accurate diagnostics.

The system uses advanced biosensors to monitor bacteria and other microorganisms in potable water supplies. It alerts astronauts and mission control if contamination occurs, allowing for immediate countermeasures. The technology is designed for low maintenance and minimal manual intervention—perfect for the space environment.

This breakthrough not only supports current missions but is critical for the future of long-term space habitation. Clean water monitoring becomes even more vital on lunar bases or Mars missions where resupply is limited.

The innovations here could also revolutionize water safety testing in remote or resource-limited areas on Earth.

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.