Scientific research on the International Space Station

The research on the ISS offers from the international space station ISS more on earth not achievable conditions. So devices for astronomical and meteorological studies can be easily mounted outside the ISS and physical and biological samples longer time exposed to space conditions. The experiments inside the ISS is used mainly by permanent microgravity. In addition, the astronauts themselves serve as subjects for studies of ( space - ) medicine, which also mission -related stress plays a role.

So far, some 50 experiments with German participation were alone commenced and partially completed, which is why some typical examples are singled out below.

The ISS as a platform in space

Outside the ISS experimental platforms can be installed to long-term suspend materials and biological samples space conditions, ie, among others, vacuum, increased UV radiation, cosmic radiation and extreme temperature changes. Examples include the European Technology Exposure Facility ( EuTEF ) and ROKVISS. ROKVISS is the prototype of a robot arm for future satellite servicing missions.

Astronomy

The ISS or even astronomical observation devices may be affixed, thus able to dispense with its own power supply and position control. Here, the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS ) is dedicated to the study of cosmic rays and Solar Monitoring Observatory ( SOLAR ) variations in solar radiation also affect the climate.

Physics and Materials Research

In microgravity to atomic particles can be kept longer in an observable volume, which enables more accurate atomic clocks. Since the ISS is less attracted to the earth and moves faster than terrestrial atomic clocks, so that more accurate checks of general and special relativity are possible. This is the goal of the Atomic Clock Ensemble in Space ( ACES ).

The Materials Science Laboratory (MSL ) is used for melting and solidification of conductive metals, alloys and semiconductors in the extreme vacuum or in high-purity inert gas environments in microgravity. Here, among other diffusion processes can be investigated, which are superimposed on the earth by convection.

With the electromagnetic levitator ( EML) can hold molten metal in the balance, so they do not come into contact with the vessel walls.

Also essential experiments for the study of plasma crystals have been and are carried out on the ISS.

Biology and Biotechnology

Protein crystals can be grown easily under microgravity conditions. Accordingly, were and are carried out on the ISS several such experiments. Proteins is needed each time in crystal form when the protein structure is to be determined, usually by X-ray structural analysis. Without the structure of the protein to know without drugs can be developed that affect the protein or enzyme.

Human Medicine

For longer stays in a microgravity environment it comes to muscle and bone loss due to the lack of stress. Corresponding studies on the ISS are used for a basic research on relevant diseases (eg, osteoporosis), but also (for example, to Mars ) to find countermeasures for extended manned space flights.

Also, the blood circulation and the immune system behave differently in space than on Earth, with the latter also mission -related stress due to spatial confinement, high workload and abnormal circadian rhythm plays a role.

In addition, the telemedicine on the ISS method tested, such as in the experiment Advanced Diagnostic Ultrasound in Microgravity ( ADUM ).

Earth Observation

The ISS also serves the remote sensing and GIS. Is responsible for managing this area of ​​research from the Image Science and Analysis Laboratory, NASA -Johnson Space Center. The laboratory maintains the The Gateway to Astronaut Photography of Earth.

Captured by astronauts on the ISS photos serve as a complement to the photographs of Earth observation satellites, since this recording angle is not rigidly fixed.

Others

The research on the ISS also includes testing of commercial products, which, however, mainly serve the product placement, as well as experiments in the context of public relations ( eg Suitsat ).

See also: Biolab, Materials International Space Station Experiment