The International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory is hosting a science webinar on Friday, July 26th at 1 p.m. EDT to discuss the exciting research launching on Northrop Grumman’s 21st Commercial Resupply Services mission. This webinar will provide insights into the groundbreaking scientific investigations being conducted in the unique environment of the space station.
Leading researchers from NASA, the ISS National Lab, and the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) will participate in the webinar. The webinar will highlight projects investigating various areas of research, including:
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Microgravity and Active Colloids:
Assistant Professor Alicia Boymelgreen from Florida International University will discuss an NSF-funded investigation exploring the potential of microgravity to enhance models of active colloids. This research could lead to advancements in a wide range of technologies, such as biosensing, drug delivery, water desalination, and cancer treatment therapies.*
Tissue Engineering in Microgravity:
Dr. Anthony Atala, director of the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, will present on an investigation studying the behavior of engineered liver tissue constructs in microgravity. This research aims to advance space-based tissue engineering, potentially leading to the in-space production of tissues for organ transplants on Earth.*
Stem Cell Production in Space:
Dr. Clive Svendsen, executive director of the Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, will discuss a project focused on developing methods to manufacture stem cells in space. These stem cells could be matured into various tissues, contributing to advancements in regenerative medicine on Earth.*
Plant Metabolism in Microgravity:
Pubudu Handakumbura, team leader in biology at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, will present on a NASA-sponsored investigation examining the carbon dioxide capture mechanisms of two types of grasses in space. This research could shed light on how photosynthesis and overall plant metabolism change in microgravity, potentially informing the development of bioregenerative life-support systems for future space missions.The webinar is open to the public and will be accessible on Zoom. Those interested in participating are encouraged to register in advance. The public can also submit questions through social media using #ISSNationalLab. A recording of the webinar will be available on the ISS National Lab YouTube channel shortly after the event.
The International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory is a unique platform for research and technology development, leveraging the multi-user facility to improve life on Earth, advance science literacy, and expand space-based business models. The ISS National Lab is managed by the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS) under a Cooperative Agreement with NASA, providing access to the space station’s microgravity research environment, low Earth orbit vantage point, and the extreme conditions of space. To learn more about the ISS National Lab and its ongoing research, please visit their website.
