Core Viewpoint - The discovery of a new microbial species named "Niallia tiangongensis" in the Chinese space station expands the understanding of microbial diversity in space and has potential applications in various fields such as space technology, agriculture, and medicine [2][4]. Group 1: Discovery and Characteristics - A new microbial species, "Niallia tiangongensis," was identified from samples collected during the Shenzhou 15 mission in May 2023, marking the first discovery of a new species in the Chinese space station [4]. - The genome of "Niallia tiangongensis" consists of 5,166,230 base pairs with a G+C content of 35.6 mol%, showing significant differences from its closest relative, "Niallia circulans," with only 83.3% genomic similarity, below the species definition threshold of 95% [4][5]. - The strain exhibits strong antioxidant stress resistance and the ability to reverse radiation-induced damage, which is crucial for survival in extreme space environments [2][5]. Group 2: Research Methodology - The microbial samples were collected using sterile wipes from various surfaces in the space station and were frozen for analysis upon return to Earth [4]. - Genomic sequencing and metabolic analysis were conducted to characterize the new strain, revealing its unique features and adaptations to the space environment [4][6]. Group 3: Implications and Applications - Understanding the survival mechanisms of "Niallia tiangongensis" could lead to the development of targeted control strategies for microorganisms, with potential applications in space missions, agriculture, and medical fields [2][5]. - The strain's unique ability to hydrolyze gelatin indicates its potential to utilize limited nutrients effectively, which is vital for sustaining life in space [5][6].