After returning to Earth, the crews of Apollo 11, 12, and 14 underwent a mandatory three-week quarantine period to prevent the spread of any possible contagions from the moon. During this period, the astronauts were closely monitored and studied to ensure that they were not carrying any harmful lunar microorganisms.
Interestingly, during their quarantine, the astronauts of Apollo 11, 12, and 14 reported to the support staff about the ants that had managed to infiltrate their living quarters. Despite the meticulous quarantine protocols, the astronauts could not escape the annoyance of these tiny insects, highlighting the challenges of maintaining a sterile environment for extended periods.
Nonetheless, this quarantine period proved to be a vital precautionary measure in ensuring that the Earth was not exposed to any unknown extraterrestrial pathogens. It provided valuable insights into the potential health risks of space travel and set a precedent for future missions to take similar precautions to protect both astronauts and the planet.