Articles tagged with Space Stations
Engineers at Texas A&M University, NASA, and Purdue University create algorithms for managing spacecraft traffic around Gateway, a lunar spaceport. The system balances fuel efficiency and operational demands to reduce the risk of collisions during space missions.
Researchers developed a method to detect water ice on the moon using seismic waves, which can travel faster through frozen soil. This discovery is critical for NASA's Artemis program, which aims to send crewed landings to the moon's south polar region in 2028.
Researchers at Texas A&M University are designing how humans will build and survive on the moon, focusing on sustainable construction using lunar regolith. The institution's efforts aim to reduce costs associated with shipping materials to the moon, making it possible to produce rocket propellant locally.
Researchers discovered the Zwan-Wolf effect in the Martian atmosphere, which helps move solar wind plasma around the planet and makes it less dense. This finding advances scientists' understanding of how the sun interacts with the solar system, particularly on unmagnetized bodies like Mars.
The US Naval Research Laboratory has launched the Glowbug-2 instrument to identify and localize cataclysmic cosmic events known as short gamma-ray bursts (GRB). The mission provides essential data for multi-messenger astrophysics, serving as a critical electromagnetic counterpart to ground-based gravitational wave observatories.
In a new study, terrestrial bacteria-infecting viruses were able to infect their E. coli hosts in near-weightless conditions aboard the ISS, but with distinct mutations. The dynamics of virus-bacteria interactions differed from those observed on Earth, highlighting potential insights into microbial adaptation and human health.
Researchers at Stanford University have successfully used machine-learning-based control to operate a robot on the International Space Station, allowing for faster and more efficient navigation while maintaining safety. The system, which includes a warm start feature, enables robots like Astrobee to move through complex environments wi...
The article proposes a circular economy approach to reduce waste, increase durability, and repurpose spacecraft and satellites. Data analysis and digital technologies will be essential for developing sustainable practices.
Researchers sent moss spores to space and found that over 80% survived for 9 months, reproducing upon return. The structure surrounding the spore protected it from UV radiation, allowing it to thrive in extreme conditions.
The SQUIRE project deploys quantum spin sensors on the China Space Station to search for pseudomagnetic fields induced by exotic interactions. These interactions can induce energy shifts in atomic energy levels, which can be detected as pseudomagnetic fields by quantum spin sensors.
Researchers at Penn State and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory analyzed human deep space communications to determine the most likely places to detect signals from an extraterrestrial intelligence. They found that transmissions to deep space, including spacecraft near Mars, are more detectable than those intended for low-Earth orbit.
A Houston Methodist research study reveals that 85% of astronauts on the International Space Station experienced at least one nasal or sinus issue, with 75% reporting nasal congestion. The study highlights the need for preventative measures and treatments tailored to space travel.
The Extant Life Volumetric Imaging System (ELVIS) will test a new holographic microscope on the International Space Station to analyze the adaptability and resilience of microorganisms. The system aims to reveal how life might persist on distant moons and planets, significantly enhancing our search for life outside Earth.
Three NSF-funded investigations are launching on NASA's SpaceX CRS-32 mission to ISS National Laboratory. Investigations aim to advance pharmaceutical manufacturing, develop new materials, and study active matter in microgravity environment.
Dr. Wei Li is creating a virtual lunar welding platform to simulate welding in the moon's harsh environment, addressing temperature fluctuations and extreme vacuum conditions. The project aims to enable reliable large structure assembly on the moon, a crucial step for human colonization.
The ISS National Lab has launched the Orbital Edge Accelerator program, investing up to $500,000 in six startups for space-based innovation and research & development. The selected startups will receive mentorship and the opportunity to launch an ISS National Lab-sponsored investigation.
Scientists successfully fermented miso on the International Space Station, discovering differences in bacterial communities and flavor profiles compared to Earth-made miso. The study's findings suggest that food fermentation can thrive in space, opening up new possibilities for astronaut well-being and performance.
The study analyzed microbial communities on the China Space Station, revealing common characteristics of environmental microorganisms during long-term human residence. The findings provide a baseline for microbial safety measures and advance research consensus on microbial adaptation capabilities in space.
Researchers from Emory University are using the International Space Station to study cardiac cells and accelerate the development of cell-based regenerative therapies. The team's findings have led to multiple peer-reviewed publications and could significantly advance methods to produce cardiac cells for heart disease treatment.
The ISS National Lab's new podcast, 'Between a Rocket & a Hard Space', offers exclusive insights from scientists, engineers, and visionaries on the future of space research. The first episode explores the groundbreaking science happening on the International Space Station, including its impact on medicine, technology, and industry.
A study found that mice exposed to microgravity for 37 days experienced significant bone loss, especially in weight-bearing bones. This research may inform human acclimation strategies for spaceflight.
Crew-9 astronauts conducted research on protein crystallization studies and a new drug for Alzheimer's, dementia, and Parkinson's. They also supported student-led experiments, contributing to the next generation of explorers.
The art installation, comprising three metal cubes, was deployed near the Mariana Trench off Japan's coast as part of a seismic sensor system. The cubes feature designs that resonate with communities worldwide and embody nine existential elements common to all humanity.
The Crew-10 mission will support cutting-edge biomedical investigations and NSF-funded physical science projects through the ISS National Lab. Astronauts will conduct experiments on the International Space Station, with findings benefiting humanity and driving commerce in low Earth orbit.
A new study published in Cell Press journal suggests that the International Space Station is overly sterile, and introducing more natural microbes could help astronauts. Researchers found that human skin was the main source of microbes on the ISS, while chemicals from cleaning products were ubiquitous.
The ISS National Lab is seeking proposals for education-focused projects that prepare students for space-focused careers. Successful projects will leverage the orbiting outpost for training and education programs.
The ISS National Lab sponsored over 100 payloads to the orbiting laboratory, achieving the second-highest annual total. The lab also published a record 51 peer-reviewed articles in FY24, advancing scientific discovery and innovation.
Experts propose an 18th SDG to protect Earth's orbit from accumulating debris, citing the need for global consensus and mechanisms for enforcement. The proposal builds on earlier calls for a legally-binding treaty to safeguard the planet's orbital environment.
The ISS National Lab is soliciting flight concepts for technology advancement using the space-based environment of the International Space Station. The lab aims to develop and test products and processes with potential economic impact through this $650,000 funding opportunity.
The NSF is seeking proposals for research on transport phenomena and fluid dynamics in space, leveraging the ISS National Lab's microgravity environment. Selected projects will receive funding to advance fundamental and translational research benefiting humanity.
Nearly 50 ISS National Lab-sponsored payloads splashed down safely on SpaceX’s CRS-31 mission, including research for early cancer detection and neurodegenerative conditions treatments. The investigations leveraged the space station's unique environment to improve life on Earth.
The AstroRad vest employs high-density polymers to shield vital organs from radiation exposure, addressing cancer and radiation sickness risks. The wearable technology has undergone extensive testing through the ISS National Lab, leading to significant enhancements in its design and functionality.
Loral O'Hara, a NASA astronaut, visited the Naval Research Laboratory to share her 200+ day mission aboard the International Space Station. She discussed her daily routine, scientific research, and the challenges faced by the crew, highlighting the importance of space exploration for advancing human knowledge.
Researchers on the ISS National Lab have leveraged microgravity to study fundamental physical phenomena, such as heat transfer, combustion, and fluid dynamics. These discoveries hold potential for advances in pharmaceuticals, energy production, materials manufacturing, and more.
The In-Space Physical AI Workshop, held at Rice University's Ion District, brought together top scientists and experts to explore AI applications in space. Key findings included the potential of AI to streamline spacecraft navigation and crew health management.
Researchers found that confined environments influence sense of smell, while VR simulations evoke stronger emotions and aroma perceptions. The study aims to improve diets for isolated individuals by personalizing aromas.
The SpaceX CRS-31 mission to the International Space Station includes studies on in-space manufacturing, cardiac health, and a method for repairing spacecraft damaged by debris. Multiple payloads sponsored by the ISS National Laboratory are bound for the orbiting outpost.
The Coronal Diagnostic Experiment (CODEX) will block out the Sun's surface light to observe details in its outer atmosphere, providing new insights into the solar wind. By measuring temperature, speed, and density, scientists will gain a fuller picture of the solar wind's evolution.
Researchers from DTU have discovered a neutron star that rotates at an astonishing 716 times per second, making it one of the fastest-spinning objects ever observed. The neutron star is part of an X-ray binary star system and is located in the Sagittarius constellation.
Researchers on the International Space Station have developed human liver tissues with enhanced functionality in microgravity, paving the way for novel stem cell-derived liver tissues and alternative to traditional liver transplants. The team also created a bioreactor system for stable supercooling preservation of tissues.
Researchers have discovered 48 lichen species at two Mars analog sites in North America and Canada. The study provides valuable information about the diversity of life on Earth as an analogue for understanding potential life on Mars.
Researchers found that low gravity conditions in space weaken and disrupt the normal rhythmic beats of human bioengineered heart tissue samples. The tissues on the International Space Station beat about half as strong as those on Earth, and developed irregular beating patterns that can cause a human heart to fail.
A new study suggests a novel way to prevent mold growth on future space stations by understanding the exposures that happen in the space environment. Repeated elevated humidity exposures can lead to rapid microbial growth and composition changes in dust, making it easier for microbes to thrive.
Researchers studied how astronauts used and adapted the International Space Station by creating one-meter squares and documenting them with daily photographs. The findings provide insights into life and work in space, international cooperation, and adaptation to microgravity.
A team of archaeologists conducted the first-ever archeological survey in space on the International Space Station, using daily photos to document how astronauts actually used areas. The study found discrepancies between the intended and actual use of certain areas, with some being used for storage or personal items.
A study found that space-traveling muscles have impaired regeneration and gene activities associated with sarcopenia. Drug treatment partially prevented the negative effects of microgravity on muscles, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach for astronauts and older adults.
This study compared the effects of augmented reality (AR) visual and auditory instructions on space station astronauts completing procedural tasks. The results showed that AR visual guidance was superior to auditory guidance in terms of task completion time, operation error frequency, and eye movement data.
The new technique allows for the creation of tiny replicas of the human brain so realistic that they rival fetal brain's neural network. Researchers can now study neurological disorders such as autism and schizophrenia in highly realistic brain cortical organoids.
A novel transparent spectral converter, GdPO4-GC:Eu3+/Pr3+, absorbs UV photons and re-emits them as visible light, increasing photovoltaic devices' conversion efficiency. This technology shields PCs from UV damage and enhances their sensitivity to UV photons.
Researchers at the University of Sussex have discovered transformative nanomaterials with potential for clean energy production and building materials on Mars. Using sustainable production methods, they turned a waste product into nanobelts that could provide clean energy and sustainable electronics.
A multi-institutional team analyzed the flow of simulated regolith using an artificial gravity generator on the ISS. The study found that flow characteristics follow well-known physical laws even at low gravity, and bulk density decreases with gravity.
Researchers at the University of Manchester are enhancing bioprinting technology to create new skin, bone, and tissue for transplantation in space. The project aims to protect astronauts' health from diseases like osteoporosis caused by microgravity exposure.
The Tiangong space station features a T-shaped configuration with three modules: Tianhe, Wentian, and Mengtian. It boasts advanced technologies, including a large-area flexible solar array system, physicochemically regenerative life support systems, and robotic arms.
Concentrations of potentially harmful chemical compounds in ISS dust exceed median values in US and Western European home floor dust. The study guides design and construction of future spacecraft by highlighting the importance of material choices.
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute researchers are using the ring-sheared drop module on the International Space Station to study protein solutions in microgravity. This research will aid in developing predictive models for both fundamental science and industry, including pharmaceutical development.
A study found that space travel causes a rapid decrease in the strength of an astronaut's immune system due to changes in gene expression. Most genes returned to normal levels within weeks after returning to Earth, but there is still uncertainty about when full resistance returns.
The CALET team, including researchers from Waseda University, found that cosmic ray helium particles follow a Double Broken Power Law, indicating spectral hardening and softening in high-energy ranges. This deviation from expected power-law distribution suggests unique sources or mechanisms accelerating and propagating helium nuclei.
The Tianzhou cargo spacecraft is a Chinese automated cargo spacecraft designed to support space station operation by transporting supplies. Its main tasks include transporting and storing supplies, controlling the orbit and attitude of the combined body, and supporting the development of space applications.
A University of Utah-led study explores using space dust as a shield to reduce solar radiation and slow global warming. Launching lunar dust from the moon instead of Earth's way station at L1 could be an effective and cheap solution.
The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft will launch onboard a Falcon 9 rocket with critical research and supplies for the International Space Station. ISS National Laboratory-sponsored projects aim to bring value through space-based research and technology development.