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Atmospheric Microbes under Simulated Icy World Conditions: A Multi-Stress Approach to Planetary Analog Research

Session: 37th Annual Undergraduate Research Exhibition Sponsored by Sigma Gamma Epsilon (Posters)

Presenting Author:

James Moore

Authors:

Moore, James¹, Gao, Yongli², Adams-Selin, Becky³, Nordstrand, Thomas⁴

(1) NASA Center for Advanced Measurements in Extreme Environments, University of Texas San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA, (2) NASA Center for Advanced Measurements in Extreme Environments, University of Texas at San Antonio, SAN ANTONIO, Texas, USA, (3) Atmospheric Components and Processes Section, Atmospheric and Environmental Research, Omaha, Nebraska, USA, (4) PhD-Environment Science & Engineering, University of Texas San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA,

Abstract:

Earth-based microbes might persist under extreme environmental conditions. This study investigates the survival potential of atmospheric microorganisms isolated from hailstones collected during the 2025 ICECHIP (In Situ Collaborative Experiment for the Collection of Hail in the Plains) field campaign, funded by the National Science Foundation. Microbial samples are exposed to a suite of simulated stressors relevant to icy moons such as Europa. Including cryostress (low-temperature exposure and freeze–thaw cycling), desiccation, and UV-C irradiation in a controlled laboratory setting. Survival rates under individual and combined stress conditions are quantified to assess microbial tolerance thresholds. Taxonomic identification will be performed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and transcriptomic analyses will be conducted to examine gene expression responses to environmental extremes. These findings will support the development of life-detection strategies and inform planetary protection protocols for future missions to icy worlds.