Rocket launches are one of the most popular and most frequently reported about space news pieces. But, we rarely hear about all of the science work actually going on in space. So, lets take a look at the ISS science experiments going on in space right now!
Life Science
Oct. 26 – Expedition 64 astronauts Kate Rubins, Sergey Kud-Sverchkov, and Sergey Ryzhikov have been performing a variety of experiments including the collection and testing of microbe samples from surfaces aboard the ISS.
Additionally, the astronauts frequently collect data on their own health and wellness to gauge the effect of humans in space and how bodies adapt to microgravity.
Physics
Oct. 27 – Rubins changed samples being used on an experiment platform outside of Japan’s Kibo laboratory model. The samples are placed on the platform outside of the ISS to understand how different materials react to space radiation and extreme temperatures.
Oct 28 – Rubins also set up equipment for a fluid physics experiment. The results of the Drop Vibration experiment will help engineers design better hardware for space travel.
The experiment is part of a series done in the U.S. Density Lab to help scientists understand physical procedures without the added influence of gravity. In the long terms, results from these experiments will help us prepare for future space missions.
Health Checks
Oct 29 – The Expedition 64 astronauts coordinated with doctors on Earth to study how their bodies are affected in space in coordination with exercise routines aboard the ISS.
A regular health check performed as part of these ISS science checks include temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and respiratory rate. Rubins had a regularly scheduled health check up on the morning of the 29th.
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