Robotics microbiology and agriculture dominate ISS research this month

Robotics microbiology and agriculture dominate ISS research this month
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Dec 08, 2024
The International Space Station (ISS) wrapped up the week with a focus on robotics, microbiology, and space agriculture as the Expedition 72 crew tackled an intensive schedule of scientific investigations and maintenance. Preparations for an upcoming spacewalk and continued work on the station's systems rounded out the crew's activities.

NASA astronaut and station commander Suni Williams concentrated on advancing robotic and agricultural technologies in space. She activated the Astrobee robotic free-flyer, which was equipped with tentacle-like arms featuring gecko-inspired adhesive pads. Williams and ground controllers observed as the robot performed docking maneuvers that could be adapted for removing orbital debris or servicing satellites. Additionally, she harvested red romaine lettuce grown in the Advanced Plant Habitat to test moisture conditions that could support sustainable crop growth in space.

Meanwhile, NASA Flight Engineer Don Pettit worked in the Columbus laboratory module analyzing microbial DNA. His research focused on identifying traits of antibiotic-resistant organisms in microgravity, a study that could provide insights into the increased potency of some pathogens in space and help mitigate risks to astronaut health.

NASA Flight Engineer Nick Hague engaged in experiments aimed at understanding food and medicine production in space by processing bacterial and yeast samples. Later, Hague teamed up with NASA Flight Engineer Butch Wilmore to finalize the biannual inspection and maintenance of the COLBERT treadmill in the Tranquility module. Wilmore concluded his day with a well-earned break following a week of extensive microbial research and cargo organization within the SpaceX Dragon cargo spacecraft.

On the Russian side of the station, cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin and Ivan Vagner prepared for a Dec. 19 spacewalk. Their tasks will include removing external science experiments and repositioning hardware for the European robotic arm. On Friday, they verified the integrity of the Poisk module hatch and prepared tools needed for the spacewalk, expected to last six hours and 40 minutes.

Roscosmos Flight Engineer Aleksandr Gorbunov contributed by measuring his body mass using a microgravity-adapted application of Newton's first law of motion. His day continued with maintenance of the station's orbital plumbing systems and concluded with inspections of a gas-liquid heat exchanger in the Zvezda service module.