COSPAR needs for Planetary Protection recommendations for sample preservation dedicated to exobiology

2004 ◽  
Vol 34 (11) ◽  
pp. 2320-2324 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. Debus
Author(s):  
Hilton H. Mollenhauer

Many factors (e.g., resolution of microscope, type of tissue, and preparation of sample) affect electron microscopical images and alter the amount of information that can be retrieved from a specimen. Of interest in this report are those factors associated with the evaluation of epoxy embedded tissues. In this context, informational retrieval is dependant, in part, on the ability to “see” sample detail (e.g., contrast) and, in part, on tue quality of sample preservation. Two aspects of this problem will be discussed: 1) epoxy resins and their effect on image contrast, information retrieval, and sample preservation; and 2) the interaction between some stains commonly used for enhancing contrast and information retrieval.


2017 ◽  
Vol 51 (4) ◽  
pp. 52-58
Author(s):  
E.A. Deshevaya ◽  
◽  
N.M. Khamidullina ◽  
A.A. Guridov ◽  
D.V. Zakharenko ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  

Author(s):  
Peter H. Wiebe ◽  
Ann Bucklin ◽  
Mark Benfield

This chapter reviews traditional and new zooplankton sampling techniques, sample preservation, and sample analysis, and provides the sources where in-depth discussion of these topics is addressed. The net systems that have been developed over the past 100+ years, many of which are still in use today, can be categorized into eight groups: non-opening/closing nets, simple opening/closing nets, high-speed samplers, neuston samplers, planktobenthos plankton nets, closing cod-end samplers, multiple net systems, and moored plankton collection systems. Methods of sample preservation include preservation for sample enumeration and taxonomic morphological analysis, and preservation of samples for genetic analysis. Methods of analysis of zooplankton samples include determination of biomass, taxonomic composition, and size by traditional methods; and genetic analysis of zooplankton samples.


2021 ◽  
Vol 84 (3) ◽  
pp. 219-231
Author(s):  
Yu Wang ◽  
Qianru Zhou ◽  
Wei Yang ◽  
Qianzhan Yang ◽  
Xuejing Zhang ◽  
...  

2019 ◽  
Vol 95 (10) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jose V Lopez ◽  
Raquel S Peixoto ◽  
Alexandre S Rosado

ABSTRACT Based on modern microbiology, we propose a major revision in current space exploration philosophy and planetary protection policy, especially regarding microorganisms in space. Mainly, microbial introduction should not be considered accidental but inevitable. We hypothesize the near impossibility of exploring new planets without carrying and/or delivering any microbial travelers. In addition, although we highlight the importance of controlling and tracking such contaminations—to explore the existence of extraterrestrial microorganisms—we also believe that we must discuss the role of microbes as primary colonists and assets, rather than serendipitous accidents, for future plans of extraterrestrial colonization. This paradigm shift stems partly from the overwhelming evidence of microorganisms’ diverse roles in sustaining life on Earth, such as symbioses and ecosystem services (decomposition, atmosphere effects, nitrogen fixation, etc.). Therefore, we propose a framework for new discussion based on the scientific implications of future colonization and terraforming: (i) focus on methods to track and avoid accidental delivery of Earth's harmful microorganisms and genes to extraterrestrial areas; (ii) begin a rigorous program to develop and explore ‘Proactive Inoculation Protocols’. We outline a rationale and solicit feedback to drive a public and private research agenda that optimizes diverse organisms for potential space colonization.


2014 ◽  
Vol 53 (7) ◽  
pp. 1135-1142 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yoshinori Takano ◽  
Hajime Yano ◽  
Yasuhito Sekine ◽  
Ryu Funase ◽  
Ken Takai

2011 ◽  
Vol 10 (4) ◽  
pp. 335-340 ◽  
Author(s):  
J.R. Marshall ◽  
R.L. Mancinelli

AbstractLaboratory experiments were conducted to determine the effect of descent-engine plumes on the scouring of surface (microbial) contaminants from a spacecraft. A simulated touchdown of a half-scale lander engine and deck configuration was conducted at Mars atmospheric pressure in the NASA Ames Planetary Aeolian Laboratory. Low-density particles were used for the soil simulant to emulate the lower Martian gravity. The underside of the model had small witness plates with controlled microbial surface populations and particle impact detectors. For both steady-state engine thrust (Viking) and pulsed engine thrust (Phoenix), the exhaust plumes from the engines violently excavated the soil and produced particle-laden eddies beneath the lander that sandblasted the lander underside. The result was nearly complete erosion of microbial contaminants from the spacecraft model with their subsequent deposition in the surrounding area. It is concluded that different planetary protection cleanliness levels for different parts of a spacecraft do not necessarily prevent soil contamination because these cleaning strategies evolved without consideration of the effects of the descent engine plumes.


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