Effect of gamma irradiation on hyperthermal composting microorganisms for feasible application in space

► The effect of gamma irradiation on composting bacteria was investigated to simulate the utilization in space. ► Population of composting microorganisms was observed by using sequence analyses and live cell staining methods. ► Gamma irradiation up to a dose of 10 kGy did not significantly alter the microbial population. ► Hyperthermal composting can be used to recycle agricultural and fermented material in space.