A new study analyzing dust samples from the International Space Station (ISS) has found high levels of hazardous chemicals that likely originated from everyday items brought on board by astronauts. Researchers from the University of Birmingham in the UK and Baylor University in the US compared dust extracted from the ISS’s air filters to typical household dust and found concentrations of chemicals like flame retardants and plasticizers that often exceeded amounts found in homes.
Some chemicals found are considered persistent organic pollutants banned by an international treaty due to risks to human health and the environment. Scientists believe these substances made their way onto the ISS via personal items like cameras, music players, and clothing. High radiation levels in space can degrade materials faster, breaking them down into concerning microplastics and nanoparticles.
While the ISS air is filtered and recirculated frequently, researchers say it’s unclear whether this removes all risky contaminants. The findings highlight the need for careful material selection in future space stations and habitats to exclude sources of pollution. With several new stations planned for launch by 2030, researchers advise considering dust contamination risks early in design.
The ISS, which first launched in 1998, may require updated filters or cleaning protocols to reduce hazardous chemical exposures for astronauts during extended missions. But for now, it seems the iconic station is dustier than the average household back on Earth.
