BOZEMAN, Mont. - Montana Microbiological Services (MMS), an environmental analytical firm in Bozeman, Montana, is currently developing an innovative digital image analysis (DIA) system. Designed to streamline detection of the disease-causing protozoan, Cryptosporidium parvum, the DIA system may also be used for automated detection of other pathogens or particulates in water or air. The MMS system scans slides of water or air samples for microorganisms, captures images, and records organism coordinates. When the system has completed scanning, a human analyst can view the images, study the suspected pathogens or contaminants, and subsequently view the object(s) in question, if further analysis is required. The system is designed to save human analysts lengthy, tedious microscopy work. It also has the potential for faster analyses.

MMS approached TechLink with the belief that this novel DIA system could be used by NASA to detect microorganisms in air and water systems on space vehicles or stations. NASA has identified the need for remote microscopic imaging systems for use in space. The company believed its prototype system could be developed into a compact, reliable, and cost-effective water and air quality monitoring system for use in space. Images of microorganisms captured by the system could be transmitted down to support crew on earth for analysis to determine risks that may required astronaut intervention.

On behalf of the company, TechLink contacted NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC), the agency¹s lead center for human space flight and astronaut safety. Discussions facilitated by TechLink between MMS and JSC about the potential of the DIA system for space use ultimately led to a reimbursable Space Act Agreement between the two parties. Under this agreement, MMS and JSC researchers will evaluate the DIA system for NASA applications, including scanning for selected microorganisms in water samples, and fungal spores in air samples. JSC will send air and water samples to MMS. These will be analyzed using the DIA system in Bozeman. Captured images will then be transmitted electronically to JSC scientists in Houston for analysis--simulating the transfer of images from a space vehicle to earth.

The project is expected to provide benefits to both parties. According to Dr. Jim Smith, MMS¹ co-owner and research director, As we considered the desired features of the DIA system--cost, compactness, ruggedness, reliability--we realized there were parallels between what was needed in space and here on earth. NASA¹s assistance in evaluating the DIA system for space use should help us to develop a better commercial product.