If paired with a deep space background, you might think that these are never before seen aliens. However, these creatures measuring less than 1 mm are all around us. Mites have accompanied humans since they lived in caves. In recent years, studies have confirmed that dust mites are closely related to bronchial asthma. Dust mites have a worldwide distribution. Research has shown that dust mite allergic asthma is the most common form of asthma globally. These two dust mites are in laboratory culture medium. Stacked photography and optics were used to capture this image to help researchers study their role as allergens.