Uploaded June 2018 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Humans aren’t the only ones who have harnessed the power of electricity. Some bacteria do this, too, by producing structures that extend from their surface like wires to transfer electrons over distances. Now, scientists at NASA’s Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley are exploring this phenomenon to see if they can make use of these special microbes, called Shewanella oneidensis MR-1, to perform essential functions on future space missions — from generating electricity to treating wastewater or producing medicines.
Video credit: NASA/Ames Research Center
Learn more: nasa.gov/feature/ames/could-electricity-producing-bacteria-help-power-future-space-missions
NASA's Ames Research Center is located in California's Silicon Valley. Follow us on social media to hear about the latest developments in space, science, technology and aeronautics.
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Humans aren’t the only ones who have harnessed the power of electricity. Some bacteria do this, too, by producing structures that extend from their surface like wires to transfer electrons over distances. Now, scientists at NASA’s Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley are exploring this phenomenon to see if they can make use of these special microbes, called Shewanella oneidensis MR-1, to perform essential functions on future space missions — from generating electricity to treating wastewater or producing medicines.
Video credit: NASA/Ames Research Center
Learn more: nasa.gov/feature/ames/could-electricity-producing-bacteria-help-power-future-space-missions
NASA's Ames Research Center is located in California's Silicon Valley. Follow us on social media to hear about the latest developments in space, science, technology and aeronautics.
facebook.com/nasaames
twitter.com/NASAAmes
instagram.com/nasaames
