jsc2026e034369

Image of RubyRed staining of Staphylococcus aureus biofilm obtained with a confocal 3D microscope during preflight testing of ODYSSEY, an investigation that evaluates biofilm formation and exchange of genetic material among two species of bacteria in spaceflight and in simulated microgravity chambers on the ground. Comparing the results between these sample groups could help researchers determine whether Earth-based simulators can be considered as proxies for spaceflight research and get a better understanding of the mechanisms behind biofilm formation and exchange of genetic material when exposed to space-like conditions. Credit: JPL-Caltech.

jsc2026e034369 (April 28, 2026) --- Image of RubyRed staining of Staphylococcus aureus biofilm obtained with a confocal 3D microscope during preflight testing of ODYSSEY, an investigation that evaluates biofilm formation and exchange of genetic material among two species of bacteria in spaceflight and in simulated microgravity chambers on the ground. Comparing the results between these sample groups could help researchers determine whether Earth-based simulators can be considered as proxies for spaceflight research and get a better understanding of the mechanisms behind biofilm formation and exchange of genetic material when exposed to space-like conditions. Credit: JPL-Caltech.

Album SpaceX_CRS-34_Science