A SpaceX mission to the International Space Station is set to launch on November 4, carrying over 25 payloads sponsored by the ISS National Laboratory. The mission aims to improve life on Earth through space-based research and foster a sustainable economy in low Earth orbit. One of the key projects on board is a collaboration between Bristol Myers Squibb and Redwire Space to crystallize model small molecule compounds in microgravity, which could lead to more effective therapeutics.
The National Science Foundation is funding four investigations, including a project by Oregon State University and Texas Tech University to study cardiac health using 3D-bioprinted cardiac organoids. Other projects focus on in-space manufacturing, such as Sachi Bioworks’ investigation into developing new therapeutics for neurodegenerative conditions. The Malta College of Arts, Science, and Technology is also launching a project to test a heatless method of welding, which could be used to repair spacecraft damaged by debris.
In-Space Manufacturing and Research on the International Space Station
The International Space Station (ISS) is set to receive a plethora of innovative payloads as part of the SpaceX CRS-31 mission, sponsored by the ISS National Laboratory. This mission aims to improve life on Earth through space-based research and foster a sustainable economy in low Earth orbit (LEO). One of the key areas of focus is in-space manufacturing, which has the potential to revolutionize the way we produce goods and materials.
In-space manufacturing involves the production of goods and materials in microgravity environments, such as those found on the ISS. This environment allows for the creation of unique materials with improved properties, such as larger and more well-ordered crystals. Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) is one company that will be building on its legacy of protein crystallization on the space station through a project in collaboration with ISS National Lab Commercial Service Provider Redwire Space. The goal of this project is to crystallize model small molecule compounds to support the manufacturing of more effective therapeutics.
Another investigation focused on in-space manufacturing is being led by Sachi Bioworks, working with ISS National Lab Commercial Service Provider Space Tango. This project aims to advance the development of new therapeutics for neurodegenerative conditions using brain organoids in microgravity. The unique environment of the ISS allows for the testing of novel drugs on Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia.
Cardiac Health Research on the International Space Station
Cardiac health is another area of research that will be advanced through the SpaceX CRS-31 mission. The National Science Foundation (NSF) is funding four investigations launching on this mission, including a collaborative project from Oregon State University and Texas Tech University focused on cardiac health. This experiment will use 3D-bioprinted cardiac organoids to study microgravity-induced heart muscle atrophy.
Heart muscle atrophy occurs in several conditions, such as cancer, muscle disease, muscular dystrophy, diabetes, sepsis, and heart failure. By studying this phenomenon in microgravity, researchers hope to gain a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms and develop new treatments for these conditions. The results of this experiment could have significant implications for human health on Earth.
Spacecraft Repair and Debris Mitigation
The growing concern of space debris is a critical issue that needs to be addressed to ensure the long-term viability of space platforms. One project launching on the SpaceX CRS-31 mission aims to develop a method for repairing spacecraft damaged by debris. The Malta College of Arts, Science, and Technology is leading this project, with support from ISS National Lab Commercial Service Provider Voyager Space.
The project involves testing a heatless method of welding, known as cold welding, which bonds similar metallic materials using force or pressure instead of heat. This method could one day be used to safely repair space platforms and ensure their long-term viability. The research team will test remote-operated, cold welding to apply metal patches to simulated spacecraft hull samples.
Student-Led Experiments on the International Space Station
The Student Spaceflight Experiment Program (SSEP) is another initiative that will be sending 39 student-led experiments to the ISS as part of the SpaceX CRS-31 mission. SSEP aims to prepare the next generation of scientists and engineers by actively involving school communities in the development of scientific investigations to be conducted in microgravity.
More than 35 communities took part in this SSEP mission, engaging hundreds of students in grades 5-12, junior college, and undergraduate studies. This program provides a unique opportunity for students to design, propose, and conduct experiments on the ISS, gaining valuable hands-on experience in scientific research and development.
Conclusion
The SpaceX CRS-31 mission is set to launch a new era of innovation and discovery on the International Space Station. With a focus on in-space manufacturing, cardiac health research, spacecraft repair, and student-led experiments, this mission has the potential to drive significant advancements in our understanding of microgravity environments and their applications on Earth. As we continue to push the boundaries of space-based research, we may uncover new solutions to some of humanity’s most pressing challenges.
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