Nanopore sequencing-based microbiome profiling of the water recovery system onboard the International Space Station
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A distinctive microbial community has inhabited the International Space Station (ISS) Water Recovery System (WRS) for over 14 years and has experienced the stressors associated with the microgravity environment.
The WRS consists of the Water Processor Assembly (WPA) and the Urine Processor Assembly (UPA).
The WRS generates potable water from urine distillate, humidity condensate, Sabatier product water, and the occasional off-loading of ground-supplied water.
The reservoir for these products, the wastewater tank, do not have a means of microbial control.
Oxygenation