The International Space Station (ISS) serves as a microgravity and space environment research laboratory, where scientific research is conducted in astrobiology, astronomy, meteorology, physics, and other fields. Each week, NASA releases the "Space to Ground" report, providing updates on activities aboard the ISS. The report for November 23, 2018, highlights significant events and research conducted during that period. This article summarizes the key activities and scientific endeavors aboard the ISS as detailed in the report.
Arrival of New Cargo and Crew
In mid-November 2018, the ISS received two resupply missions. The Northrop Grumman Cygnus cargo spacecraft launched on November 15, 2018, carrying supplies and scientific experiments to the station. Shortly after, the Russian Progress 71 cargo spacecraft arrived on November 18, 2018, delivering additional supplies and equipment. These missions were crucial for maintaining the station's operations and supporting ongoing research projects.
Scientific Research and Experiments
The crew aboard the ISS engaged in various scientific experiments during this period. Notably, they conducted research in the fields of protein crystallization, wireless sensor networks, and plant growth. These experiments aimed to advance our understanding of biological processes and technological applications in space.
Protein Crystallization
Following the arrival of the Cygnus spacecraft, the crew installed two Japanese Protein Crystallization Growth (PCG) canisters into the Protein Crystallization Research Facility (PCRF) in the Ryutai Rack. This experiment aimed to obtain high-quality protein crystals in the microgravity environment, which is essential for developing drugs to combat multidrug-resistant bacteria, Alzheimer's disease, muscular dystrophy, and periodontitis. The results also contribute to the development of blood substitutes and biosensors.
Wireless Sensor Networks
The crew removed WiseNet sensors from various locations within the ISS, including the U.S. Laboratory, Node 2, and the European Space Agency's Columbus module. The WiseNet technology demonstration sought to establish the functionality of low-power radio frequency networks within the ISS environment using low-power sensor nodes. These sensors formed a wireless network to monitor environmental factors such as temperature, pressure, and humidity, providing valuable data for maintaining optimal conditions aboard the station.
Plant Growth Studies
The Plant Habitat-1 investigation was conducted to compare differences in genetics, metabolism, photosynthesis, and gravity sensing between plants grown in space and on Earth. This research is expected to provide key insights into the major changes occurring in plants exposed to microgravity, which is crucial for future long-duration space missions where growing plants for food and oxygen generation will be necessary.
Maintenance and Upgrades
Regular maintenance and system upgrades are essential for the ISS's continued operation. During this period, the crew performed several tasks to ensure the station's systems remained functional and efficient.
Life Support Rack (LSR) Activation
The crew prepared for the activation of the European Space Agency's Life Support Rack (LSR) by mating power and data umbilical cables, as well as fluid and waste gas umbilicals. The LSR is a technology demonstrator for closed-loop air revitalization, capturing carbon dioxide from cabin air and recovering 50% of its oxygen for use by the astronauts. Operating for a minimum of one year on the ISS, the LSR aims to demonstrate the robustness of the technology for future exploration missions.
NanoRacks Platform Relocation
The crew relocated NanoRacks Platforms 1 and 2 from Express Rack 4 to the new Express Rack 10B. After re-mating cables and powering up the platforms, they were ready to support NanoRacks Modules in the CubeSat form factor. These platforms provide power and data transfer capabilities to operate investigations in microgravity, supporting a wide range of scientific experiments.
Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) Battery Maintenance
The crew initiated an autocycle for two EMU Long Life Batteries (LLBs) to capture battery health data. Over the course of three days, the autocycle will monitor the charge and discharge capacities of these new and improved batteries. The data collected will help ground experts understand the performance of the charging system between on-orbit and ground-based systems, ensuring the reliability of the EMUs used for spacewalks.
Training and Preparedness
Ensuring the crew is well-prepared for various scenarios is vital for the safety and success of missions aboard the ISS. During this period, the crew participated in training sessions to enhance their readiness for potential emergencies and to familiarize themselves with the station's systems.
Emergency Procedures Training
The crew practiced International Space Station emergency procedures, ensuring they are prepared for potential contingencies. This training is essential for maintaining crew safety and the integrity of the station during unforeseen events.
Robotics Training
The crew underwent robotics training to enhance their proficiency in operating the station's robotic systems. This training is crucial for tasks such as capturing cargo spacecraft, performing maintenance, and conducting scientific experiments that require precise robotic manipulation.
Upcoming Missions and Events
Looking ahead, the ISS was preparing for the arrival of additional resupply missions. The SpaceX CRS-16 mission was scheduled to launch on December 4, 2018, delivering supplies and scientific payloads to the station. This mission was expected to support ongoing research and provide essential materials for the crew.
Conclusion
The period leading up to November 23, 2018, was marked by significant scientific research, maintenance activities, and training aboard the International Space Station. The crew's efforts in conducting experiments, maintaining systems, and preparing for future missions contributed to the advancement of space science and the continued success of the ISS as a hub for international collaboration and discovery.