4 min read<\/p>\n
Preparations for Next Moonwalk Simulations Underway (and Underwater)<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"NASA](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/iss071e547724.jpg?w=2048\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson smiles for a portrait in the vestibule between the Kibo laboratory module and the Harmony module aboard space station.<\/div>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson is returning home after a six-month mission aboard the International Space Station. While on orbit, Dyson conducted an array of experiments and technology demonstrations that contribute to advancements for humanity on Earth and the agency\u2019s trajectory to the Moon and Mars.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Here is a look at some of the science Dyson conducted during her mission:\u00a0<\/p>\n
Heart-Shaped\u00a0Bioprints<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Expedition](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/iss071e003194.jpg?w=2048\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson operates the\u00a0BioFabrication\u00a0Facility<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0for the\u00a0Redwire\u00a0Cardiac Bioprinting Investigation<\/strong><\/a>, which 3D prints cardiovascular tissue samples. In microgravity, bio inks used for 3D printing are less likely to settle and retain their shape better than on Earth.\u00a0Cardiovascular disease<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0is currently the number one cause of death in the United States, and findings from this space station investigation could one day lead to 3D-printed organs such as hearts for patients awaiting transplants.\u00a0<\/p>\nWicking in Weightlessness<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Expedition](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/iss071e092807.jpg?w=2048\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson\u00a0handles hardware for the Wicking in Gel-Coated Tubes (Gaucho Lung<\/strong><\/a>) experiment. This study uses a tube lined with various gel thicknesses to simulate the human respiratory system. A fluid mass known as a liquid plug is then observed as it either blocks or flows through the tube. Data regarding the movement and trailing of the liquid plug allows researchers to design better drug delivery methods to address respiratory ailments.\u00a0<\/p>\nProgramming for Future Missions<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"iss071e046270](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/iss071e046270.jpg?w=2048\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"Dyson](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/iss071e046288.jpg?w=2048\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA astronaut Tracy C.\u00a0Dyson runs student-designed software on the free-flying\u00a0Astrobee<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0robot. This technology demonstration is part of\u00a0Zero Robotics<\/strong><\/a>, a worldwide competition that engages middle school students in writing computer code to address unique specifications. Winning participants get to run their software on an\u00a0actual\u00a0Astrobee\u00a0aboard the space station. This educational opportunity helps inspire the next generation of technology innovators.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\nRobo-Extensions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"NASA](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/iss071e297582.jpg?w=2048\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nAs we venture to the Moon and Mars, astronauts may rely more on robots to ensure safety and preserve resources. Through the\u00a0Surface Avatar<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0study, NASA astronaut\u00a0Tracy C. Dyson\u00a0controls a robot on Earth\u2019s surface from a computer aboard station. This technology demonstration aims to toggle between manipulating multiple robots and \u201cdiving inside\u201d a specific bot to control as an avatar. This two-way demonstration also evaluates how robot operators respond their robotic counterparts\u2019 efficiency and general output. Applications for Earth use include exploration of inhospitable zones and search and rescue missions after disasters.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\nCapturing Earth\u2019s Essence<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Suni](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/iss071e256901.jpg?w=2048\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nFor\u00a0Crew Earth Observations<\/strong><\/a>, astronauts take pictures of Earth from space for research purposes. NASA astronauts Suni Williams (left) and Tracy C. Dyson (right) contribute by aiming handheld cameras from the space station\u2019s cupola to photograph our planet. Images help inform climate and environmental trends worldwide\u00a0and provide real-time natural disaster assessments. More than\u00a0four\u00a0million photographs have been taken of Earth by astronauts from space.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\nMulti-faceted Crystallization Processor<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"NASA](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/iss071e515505.jpg?w=2048\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA astronaut Tracy C.\u00a0Dyson holds a cassette for Pharmaceutical In-Space Laboratory \u2013 04 (ADSEP-PIL-04<\/strong><\/a>), an experiment to crystallize the model proteins lysozyme and insulin. Up to three cassettes with samples can be processed simultaneously in the Advanced Space Experiment Processor (ADSEP<\/strong><\/a>), each at an independent temperature. Because lysozyme and insulin have well-documented crystal structures, they can be used to evaluate the hardware\u2019s performance in space. Successful crystallization with ADSEP could lead to production and manufacturing of versatile crystals with pharmaceutical applications.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\nCryo<\/strong>\u00a0Care\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"iss071e040122](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/iss071e040122.jpg?w=2048\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA astronauts Tracy C. Dyson and Matthew Dominick preserve research samples in freezers aboard the space station. Cryopreservation is essential for maintaining the integrity of samples for a variety of experiments, especially within the field of biology. The orbiting laboratory has multiple freezer options with varying subzero temperatures. Upon return, frozen samples are delivered back to their research teams for further analysis.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Welcoming New Science<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"NASA](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/iss071e321386.jpg?w=2048\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson is pictured between the Unity module and Northrop Grumman\u2019s Cygnus spacecraft in preparation for depressurization and departure from the International Space Station. On long-duration missions, visiting vehicles provide necessities for crew daily living as well as new science experiments and supplies for ongoing research. This vehicle brought experiments to test water recovery technology, produce stem cells in microgravity, study the effects of spaceflight on microorganism DNA, and conduct science demonstrations for students.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
<\/div>\nDiana Garcia<\/em>\u00a0<\/p>\nInternational Space Station Research Communications Team<\/em><\/p>\nNASA\u2019s Johnson Space Center<\/em><\/strong><\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n\n
![\"NASA](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/iss071e547724.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>NASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson is returning home after a six-month mission aboard the International Space Station. While on orbit, Dyson conducted an array of experiments and technology demonstrations that contribute to advancements for humanity on Earth and the agency\u2019s trajectory to the Moon and Mars.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Here is a look at some of the science Dyson conducted during her mission:\u00a0<\/p>\n
Heart-Shaped\u00a0Bioprints<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson operates the\u00a0BioFabrication\u00a0Facility<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0for the\u00a0Redwire\u00a0Cardiac Bioprinting Investigation<\/strong><\/a>, which 3D prints cardiovascular tissue samples. In microgravity, bio inks used for 3D printing are less likely to settle and retain their shape better than on Earth.\u00a0Cardiovascular disease<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0is currently the number one cause of death in the United States, and findings from this space station investigation could one day lead to 3D-printed organs such as hearts for patients awaiting transplants.\u00a0<\/p>\nWicking in Weightlessness<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson\u00a0handles hardware for the Wicking in Gel-Coated Tubes (Gaucho Lung<\/strong><\/a>) experiment. This study uses a tube lined with various gel thicknesses to simulate the human respiratory system. A fluid mass known as a liquid plug is then observed as it either blocks or flows through the tube. Data regarding the movement and trailing of the liquid plug allows researchers to design better drug delivery methods to address respiratory ailments.\u00a0<\/p>\nProgramming for Future Missions<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA astronaut Tracy C.\u00a0Dyson runs student-designed software on the free-flying\u00a0Astrobee<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0robot. This technology demonstration is part of\u00a0Zero Robotics<\/strong><\/a>, a worldwide competition that engages middle school students in writing computer code to address unique specifications. Winning participants get to run their software on an\u00a0actual\u00a0Astrobee\u00a0aboard the space station. This educational opportunity helps inspire the next generation of technology innovators.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\nRobo-Extensions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nAs we venture to the Moon and Mars, astronauts may rely more on robots to ensure safety and preserve resources. Through the\u00a0Surface Avatar<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0study, NASA astronaut\u00a0Tracy C. Dyson\u00a0controls a robot on Earth\u2019s surface from a computer aboard station. This technology demonstration aims to toggle between manipulating multiple robots and \u201cdiving inside\u201d a specific bot to control as an avatar. This two-way demonstration also evaluates how robot operators respond their robotic counterparts\u2019 efficiency and general output. Applications for Earth use include exploration of inhospitable zones and search and rescue missions after disasters.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\nCapturing Earth\u2019s Essence<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nFor\u00a0Crew Earth Observations<\/strong><\/a>, astronauts take pictures of Earth from space for research purposes. NASA astronauts Suni Williams (left) and Tracy C. Dyson (right) contribute by aiming handheld cameras from the space station\u2019s cupola to photograph our planet. Images help inform climate and environmental trends worldwide\u00a0and provide real-time natural disaster assessments. More than\u00a0four\u00a0million photographs have been taken of Earth by astronauts from space.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\nMulti-faceted Crystallization Processor<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA astronaut Tracy C.\u00a0Dyson holds a cassette for Pharmaceutical In-Space Laboratory \u2013 04 (ADSEP-PIL-04<\/strong><\/a>), an experiment to crystallize the model proteins lysozyme and insulin. Up to three cassettes with samples can be processed simultaneously in the Advanced Space Experiment Processor (ADSEP<\/strong><\/a>), each at an independent temperature. Because lysozyme and insulin have well-documented crystal structures, they can be used to evaluate the hardware\u2019s performance in space. Successful crystallization with ADSEP could lead to production and manufacturing of versatile crystals with pharmaceutical applications.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\nCryo<\/strong>\u00a0Care\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA astronauts Tracy C. Dyson and Matthew Dominick preserve research samples in freezers aboard the space station. Cryopreservation is essential for maintaining the integrity of samples for a variety of experiments, especially within the field of biology. The orbiting laboratory has multiple freezer options with varying subzero temperatures. Upon return, frozen samples are delivered back to their research teams for further analysis.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Welcoming New Science<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson is pictured between the Unity module and Northrop Grumman\u2019s Cygnus spacecraft in preparation for depressurization and departure from the International Space Station. On long-duration missions, visiting vehicles provide necessities for crew daily living as well as new science experiments and supplies for ongoing research. This vehicle brought experiments to test water recovery technology, produce stem cells in microgravity, study the effects of spaceflight on microorganism DNA, and conduct science demonstrations for students.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
<\/div>\nDiana Garcia<\/em>\u00a0<\/p>\nInternational Space Station Research Communications Team<\/em><\/p>\nNASA\u2019s Johnson Space Center<\/em><\/strong><\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>NASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson operates the\u00a0BioFabrication\u00a0Facility<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0for the\u00a0Redwire\u00a0Cardiac Bioprinting Investigation<\/strong><\/a>, which 3D prints cardiovascular tissue samples. In microgravity, bio inks used for 3D printing are less likely to settle and retain their shape better than on Earth.\u00a0Cardiovascular disease<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0is currently the number one cause of death in the United States, and findings from this space station investigation could one day lead to 3D-printed organs such as hearts for patients awaiting transplants.\u00a0<\/p>\n NASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson\u00a0handles hardware for the Wicking in Gel-Coated Tubes (Gaucho Lung<\/strong><\/a>) experiment. This study uses a tube lined with various gel thicknesses to simulate the human respiratory system. A fluid mass known as a liquid plug is then observed as it either blocks or flows through the tube. Data regarding the movement and trailing of the liquid plug allows researchers to design better drug delivery methods to address respiratory ailments.\u00a0<\/p>\n NASA astronaut Tracy C.\u00a0Dyson runs student-designed software on the free-flying\u00a0Astrobee<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0robot. This technology demonstration is part of\u00a0Zero Robotics<\/strong><\/a>, a worldwide competition that engages middle school students in writing computer code to address unique specifications. Winning participants get to run their software on an\u00a0actual\u00a0Astrobee\u00a0aboard the space station. This educational opportunity helps inspire the next generation of technology innovators.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n As we venture to the Moon and Mars, astronauts may rely more on robots to ensure safety and preserve resources. Through the\u00a0Surface Avatar<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0study, NASA astronaut\u00a0Tracy C. Dyson\u00a0controls a robot on Earth\u2019s surface from a computer aboard station. This technology demonstration aims to toggle between manipulating multiple robots and \u201cdiving inside\u201d a specific bot to control as an avatar. This two-way demonstration also evaluates how robot operators respond their robotic counterparts\u2019 efficiency and general output. Applications for Earth use include exploration of inhospitable zones and search and rescue missions after disasters.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n For\u00a0Crew Earth Observations<\/strong><\/a>, astronauts take pictures of Earth from space for research purposes. NASA astronauts Suni Williams (left) and Tracy C. Dyson (right) contribute by aiming handheld cameras from the space station\u2019s cupola to photograph our planet. Images help inform climate and environmental trends worldwide\u00a0and provide real-time natural disaster assessments. More than\u00a0four\u00a0million photographs have been taken of Earth by astronauts from space.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n NASA astronaut Tracy C.\u00a0Dyson holds a cassette for Pharmaceutical In-Space Laboratory \u2013 04 (ADSEP-PIL-04<\/strong><\/a>), an experiment to crystallize the model proteins lysozyme and insulin. Up to three cassettes with samples can be processed simultaneously in the Advanced Space Experiment Processor (ADSEP<\/strong><\/a>), each at an independent temperature. Because lysozyme and insulin have well-documented crystal structures, they can be used to evaluate the hardware\u2019s performance in space. Successful crystallization with ADSEP could lead to production and manufacturing of versatile crystals with pharmaceutical applications.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n NASA astronauts Tracy C. Dyson and Matthew Dominick preserve research samples in freezers aboard the space station. Cryopreservation is essential for maintaining the integrity of samples for a variety of experiments, especially within the field of biology. The orbiting laboratory has multiple freezer options with varying subzero temperatures. Upon return, frozen samples are delivered back to their research teams for further analysis.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n NASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson is pictured between the Unity module and Northrop Grumman\u2019s Cygnus spacecraft in preparation for depressurization and departure from the International Space Station. On long-duration missions, visiting vehicles provide necessities for crew daily living as well as new science experiments and supplies for ongoing research. This vehicle brought experiments to test water recovery technology, produce stem cells in microgravity, study the effects of spaceflight on microorganism DNA, and conduct science demonstrations for students.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Diana Garcia<\/em>\u00a0<\/p>\n International Space Station Research Communications Team<\/em><\/p>\n NASA\u2019s Johnson Space Center<\/em><\/strong><\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\nWicking in Weightlessness<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/figure>Programming for Future Missions<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/figure><\/a><\/figure>Robo-Extensions<\/strong><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/figure>Capturing Earth\u2019s Essence<\/strong><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/figure>Multi-faceted Crystallization Processor<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/figure>Cryo<\/strong>\u00a0Care\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/figure>Welcoming New Science<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/figure>