Is a Space Pandemic Possible?

When we think of threats from outer space, we often picture catastrophic events like asteroid strikes or alien invasions. But what if the biggest threat was invisible to the naked eye? What if the next pandemic came from space?

The idea of a pandemic originating from space may seem far-fetched, but the potential for contamination between our world and other planets is a real concern. NASA takes this potential contamination seriously to prevent us from accidentally contaminating other planets. Terrestrial microscopic organisms could arrive on other planets by catching a ride on equipment that wasn't cleaned thoroughly. Contamination protocols are stricter for planets like Mars or Europa where conditions for life are theoretically possible. Backward contamination is also possible, where we could unknowingly bring back extra-terrestrial microbes from space, or these life forms could spread across the universe naturally. This theory is known as panspermia and could explain how life arrived on Earth. However, where life can go, it can also destroy.

Sending Teslas into space without proper protection measures can lead to deadly exposure in the vast expanse of space. Commercial space launches are becoming more common, making it nearly impossible not to contaminate space. A privately launched Israeli lunar lander in 2019 crashed on the moon carrying thousands of microscopic organisms called tardigrades. These organisms can withstand extreme conditions and could be evolving in microgravity or in conditions similar to the martian permafrost. To avoid forward contamination, we need to take every precaution. The consequences of not doing so could be dangerous, but first, we need to address how to prevent it.

To prepare for human missions to Mars, we need to clean and sterilize our spaceships. We should establish exploration zones and apply strict precautionary measures before exploring other parts of the red planet. Forward contamination is not the only concern; we could accidentally bring back extra-terrestrial life that could pose existential threats to all kinds of organisms, including ourselves. While finding life on Mars seems unlikely, it's possible that martian organisms could survive in water-rich spots and have the same biological origin as life on Earth. However, this also makes them dangerous as they could find Earth to be a hospitable new home.

Invasive space microbes could take over Earth and cause extinction of many species, including humans. These microbes could be pathogens that are resistant to the immune system and replicate inside the body until they burst open, releasing deadly spores. If this happened outside in the open, there would be no way to stop the spread of alien spores and it would be game over for Earth.

Strict rules and protocols are necessary for returning spacecraft, crew, and potential biological samples. Astronauts in past Apollo missions were quarantined for 30 days and lunar samples were subjected to extensive protocols. Samples from Mars should be assumed dangerous until proven otherwise, and proper containment must be maintained throughout travel and delivery to quarantine facilities. Samples should only be distributed once proven free of biological life. If there is any doubt, the spacecraft and samples must be sterilized in space or not return to Earth. Hypothetically, settling on Mars may be necessary.

In conclusion, while the idea of a pandemic originating from space may seem like science fiction, the potential for contamination between our world and other planets is a real concern that must be taken seriously. Proper protocols and precautions must be implemented to prevent forward and backward contamination. The consequences of not doing so could be catastrophic, and we must act now to prevent a potential disaster from happening.

Source:

Anderton, K. (2018) “The Pros And Cons Of Launching A Car Into Space [Infographic],” Forbes, 1 March. https://www.forbes.com/sites/kevinanderton/2018/02/28/the-pros-and-cons-of-launching-a-car-into-space-infographic/?sh=183437e85059

Manaugh, G. and Twilley, N. (2021) “Safe space: the cosmic importance of planetary quarantine,” The Guardian, 23 August. https://www.theguardian.com/science/2021/jul/13/safe-space-exploration-planetary-quarantine-mars-nasa

Miller, J. (2019) Panspermia Theory: Did Life On Earth Originate Elsewhere In The Galaxy? https://www.astronomytrek.com/panspermia-origins-of-life-on-earth/

Rothery, D. (2022) “Moon-crashing SpaceX rocket will create new crater – here’s what we should worry about,” Space.com, 13 February. https://www.space.com/spacex-rocket-crashing-into-mooncrater

Strickland, A. (2021) “The Apollo 11 astronauts quarantined after returning to Earth. Here’s why,” CNN, 6 March. https://edition.cnn.com/2021/03/06/world/apollo-11-astronauts-quarantine-scn/index.html