![\"NASA](\"https:\/\/blogs.nasa.gov\/spacestation\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/240\/2019\/05\/blog_iss059e068226.jpg\")
<\/a>The Expedition 59<\/a> astronauts focused on DNA editing, high-end physics and free-flying robotics aboard the International Space Station<\/a> today. Two cosmonauts are also ramping up their preparations for next week\u2019s spacewalk.<\/p>\n The orbiting complex is flying higher today after a docked Russian cargo craft fired its engines for 20 minutes. The orbital reboost places the station in the correct trajectory for the undocking and landing of three Expedition 59 crewmembers June 24.<\/p>\n The wide range of advanced space research<\/a> taking place every day on the orbiting lab benefits humans on Earth and in space. Scientists use the results to treat terrestrial ailments and the negative impacts of microgravity more effectively. Engineers also take the data to improve industrial and commercial processes and design safer, more advanced spacecraft and habitats as NASA prepares to go to the Moon in 2024<\/a>.<\/p>\n NASA astronaut Nick Hague<\/a> is researching how space radiation damages DNA<\/a> today using the CRISPR genome-editing tool. The Genes in Space-6<\/a> study also uses DNA extraction and sequencing tools to observe how the damaged DNA repairs itself in space. Results may advance the development of treatments for radiation exposure hazards in harsh environments.<\/p>\n Space manufacturing eliminates the detrimental effect of Earth\u2019s gravity and may provide superior results than on Earth. Flight Engineer Christina Koch<\/a> of NASA set up hardware in the Microgravity Science Glovebox<\/a> to explore the production of high-quality optical fibers<\/a> on the station. The study seeks to create a high commercial value product benefitting both Earth and space industries.<\/p>\n The Astrobee<\/a> robotic assistant is being checked out today by Canadian Space Agency astronaut David Saint-Jacques<\/a>. He set up the cube-shaped robotic free flyer to map the inside the of Kibo laboratory module<\/a> and spun it rapidly afterward calibrating its navigation camera. Astrobee is being tested for its ability to perform routine maintenance duties and provide additional lab monitoring capabilities.<\/p>\n Two cosmonauts are ensuring their physical readiness and outfitting a pair of Russian Orlan spacesuits ahead of a May 29 spacewalk. Commander Oleg Kononenko<\/a> and Flight Engineer Alexey Ovchinin<\/a> each spent over an hour on an exercise bike today measuring their cardiovascular response. Flight surgeons want to make sure the spacewalkers are able to endure the several hours of intense physical exertion. The duo also installed lights and other components onto the spacesuits.<\/p>\n Get The Details…<\/a><\/p>\n Mark Garcia <\/p>\n Powered by WPeMatico<\/a><\/small><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" The Expedition 59<\/a> astronauts focused on DNA editing, high-end physics and free-flying robotics aboard the International Space Station<\/a> today. Two cosmonauts are also ramping up their preparations for next week\u2019s spacewalk.<\/p>\n The orbiting complex is flying higher today after a docked Russian cargo craft fired its engines for 20 minutes. The orbital reboost places the station in the correct trajectory for the undocking and landing of three Expedition 59 crewmembers June 24.<\/p>\n The wide range of advanced space research<\/a> taking place every day on the orbiting lab benefits humans on Earth and in space. Scientists use the results to treat terrestrial ailments and the negative impacts of microgravity more effectively. Engineers also take the data to improve industrial and commercial processes and design safer, more advanced spacecraft and habitats as NASA prepares to go \u2026 Continue reading DNA, Physics and Robotics Pack Station Research Schedule Today<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n
<\/a>NASA astronaut Nick Hague of Expedition 59 sequences DNA samples for a study exploring how increased exposure to space radiation impacts crew health. <\/p>\n