HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — CFD Research Corporation has been awarded a NASA contract to develop advanced technologies that improve the detection of hard-to-find microorganisms, supporting planetary protection efforts for future space missions.
As NASA expands exploration to the Moon, Mars, and beyond, preventing the unintended transfer of Earth-based microbes to other planetary bodies is critical. Even trace amounts of contamination can impact scientific discovery and mission integrity. However, detecting these microorganisms, especially those that are highly resilient and present in extremely low numbers, remains a significant technical challenge.
To address this, CFD Research is developing a novel approach called Genomic Rapid Inspection of Non-abundant bacteria after Decontamination (GRIND). This technique is designed to significantly improve how microbial samples are processed and analyzed, enabling more effective detection of organisms that can survive harsh, space-like environments.
Many of the most concerning microbes, such as bacterial endospores, are highly resistant to traditional analysis methods and can evade detection during standard sample preparation. The GRIND approach introduces a combined mechanical and chemical process that dramatically improves the ability to break down these resilient organisms and recover their genetic material for analysis.
By enhancing detection sensitivity and efficiency, this technology aims to close a critical gap in current planetary protection protocols – helping ensure that spacecraft and exploration systems meet the highest standards for biological cleanliness.
“Detecting extremely low levels of resilient microorganisms is one of the biggest challenges in planetary protection,” said David Gaddes, Manager in the Biotechnology & Life Sciences Division at CFD Research. “With GRIND, we’re developing a more effective way to uncover what traditional methods can miss, helping NASA safeguard future missions and preserve the integrity of scientific exploration.”
This work supports NASA’s broader mission to responsibly explore space while preventing biological contamination, enabling more reliable scientific results and protecting the environments of other worlds.
About CFD Research
Founded in 1987, CFD Research is a 100% employee-owned (ESOP) engineering and technology firm delivering innovative solutions across Aerospace, Defense, Intelligence, Sensing, Biotechnology, Life Sciences, Prototyping, and Test & Evaluation. The company is recognized for developing and commercializing advanced multi-physics simulation software, component and system technology prototypes, multidisciplinary analyses, and expert support services. This work has earned multiple national awards, along with recognition on the Inc. 5000 list five times in the past six years. Headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, with facilities in Dayton, OH, Hollywood, AL, and Fort Walton Beach, FL, CFD Research is ISO 9001:AS9100D registered and CMMI Level II appraised for Services. Learn more at www.cfd-research.com.
