**Spaceward Bound Report**

L. Powers and S. Rich

Utah State University and MicroBioSystems of Utah, LLC

Using a unique combination of leading-edge technologies, we have
developed a hand-held, continuous, real-time monitor for detection of
microbes, together with microbe capture technology for identification.
This system is sensitive enough to detect very low levels \[\~20
cells/cm^2^ on surfaces or \~100 cells/50 mL solution\] of microbes in
minutes. The detection of microbes is based upon intrinsic fluorescence
of the cells and spores such as that from metabolites, amino acids, and
other specific cell components. The multi-wavelength fluorescence
detection device requires no reagents or sample contact and
distinguishes viable cells, non-viable cells, and spores. This
technology can detect bacterial cells and spores in soils and on rocks
employing pattern recognition algorithms. The appended document
describes this instrument detail. Our goal was to locate microbial life
map its location on site and, later, identify it.

Preliminary tests of the utility of this instrumentation looking for
life in extreme environments have been performed on soil \[containimg
rocks and salt\] samples collected in the western US \[including the
Mars Desert Research Station, Hanksville, UT\], Kilimanjaro, and the
Atacama Desert. Algorithms were developed to deal with the background
and interferences presented by soils and rock based on these preliminary
studies. A prototype instrument \[owned by MBSU\] was outfitted for use
in the Atacama Desert in two modes: 1) mounted at a stationary position
where samples were placed in a small sterile cups for measurement
\[transect\] and 2) carried to a position and placed over the sample for
measurement \[Volcan Lascar\]. Both methods were used.

![](media/image1.jpeg){width="2.883464566929134in"
height="2.161023622047244in"}![](media/image2.jpeg){width="2.883464566929134in"
height="2.161023622047244in"}

Measurements made with the instrument at the various sites are largely
confirmed by the preliminary outgrowth studies that have been completed
\[others are still in progress\]:

1)  largely Actinomyes and Bacillus spp. have been found together with a
    variety of highly colored fungi

2)  'patches' are found at desert station area and Cerro Buenos Aires
    where some areas are very low \[10^2^/g\] while others nearby
    \[3-30m\] are very high \[10^6^/g\] near a. desert station

rock garden area was low,

salt flats and wadis slightly higher

under a big rock very high

pothole on rock surface was low

water was added and after an hour or so, the reading was high

b\. Cerro Buenos Aires

very high except for the area facing the wind and sun which was very low

3)  Volcan Lascar surface as very low

4)  Valley of the Moon was very high except for a very rocky sheltered
    area

We are also using other analytical methods to identify the microbial
flora and characterize the soil composition. We are only a little way
into the complete analysis.

Our effort had several teachers work closely with us \[3 Chileans, 8
Americans\] and 2 joined us on our long trek across the Atacama and to
the top of two volcanoes. Both in the field and at Yungai, they
participated in all aspects of sample/data collection, data organization
and recording, data integration/analysis, and discussions. They helped
identify places to measure/sample and made sure we had all the equipment
we needed for the tasks. In all, they were a tremendous addition to our
efforts and we collected considerably more samples and data then we
could possibly have without them. In addition, they were eager to learn
and that makes even not so exciting \[boring\] tasks fun. We had several
long discussions about underlying theory, possibilities, and
applications and I sent them information about our technology after I
returned. Two of those who worked with us have contacted me to see if
they could work with us during the summers and I am working on that
possibility.

I believe the benefit to them was great for and for as well, but even
greater for their students. First, they were fired up to learn something
new and this attitude spreads like wild fire when they are in contact
with students. Second, they were introduced to the excitement of
discovery -- a very addicting potion. The long trek up two volcans \[I
view it as quite godly\] and hours of riding in a crowded 4X4 across the
desert with no help available for possibly days \[could be viewed as
ungodly, I guess\] should there have been a problem made them appreciate
the commitment it takes and the rewarded them with the satisfaction of
having accomplished it. These are just the ingredients we want to convey
to students! One of the teachers who went with me \[up both volcans\] is
writing a book for his students on his experiences. This multiples the
investment by an unimaginable factor!