Isolator/glovebox technical challenges for the curation of samples returned from Mars

Area of Science:

• Planetary Science
• Microbiology
• Biosafety Engineering

Background:

• Mars sample return (MSR) missions pose risks due to potential extraterrestrial life.
• Current containment facilities face challenges integrating biological safety with pristine sample handling.
• COSPAR classifies MSR as Class V restricted due to non-zero risk of unknown extraterrestrial microbiology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore technical challenges in high-containment sample curation for MSR.
• To demonstrate and test a double-walled isolator (DWI) concept for enhanced containment.
• To support planetary protection (PP) requirements for MSR.

Main Methods:

• Development of a double-walled isolator (DWI) breadboard (BB) model in the UK.
• Testing the DWI concept for its multi-barrier technology capabilities.
• Evaluating the DWI's integration with ultra-clean cabinet operations and biosafety level (BSL) 3/4 laboratories.

Main Results:

• The DWI concept demonstrates effective multi-barrier technology for safe sample handling.
• The DWI design supports enhanced Class III biosafety cabinet (BSC) development.
• The tertiary pressure barrier in the DWI enhances containment integrity.

Conclusions:

• The DWI is a viable solution for high-containment sample curation in MSR.
• This technology advances biosafety for handling potentially hazardous extraterrestrial samples.
• The DWI contributes to sustainable space exploration by ensuring planetary protection.