As humanity prepares to return to deep space through missions like Artemis II, much of the attention is understandably focused on the visible engineering achievements, next-generation propulsion systems, advanced navigation capabilities, and the complex architecture required to safely transport humans beyond Earth’s orbit.

These are the technologies that capture headlines. They represent the cutting edge of aerospace innovation and define the ambition of modern space exploration.

While antimicrobial materials have traditionally been associated with healthcare and consumer goods, their application in aerospace and defence is gaining momentum. Industry leaders are beginning to see the value of embedded antimicrobial technologies — additives or treatments integrated directly into polymers, coatings, and textiles — as a passive, self-sustaining defence mechanism.