Expedition 8 Conducts Russian Experiments, Prepares for Trip Home

The Expedition 8 crew’s workday Thursday was filled with a wide range of activities. Flight Engineer Alexander Kaleri conducted the second part of a three-part Russian fitness evaluation. Once again, scientists recorded data as he exercised on the Station’s cycle ergometer. He also worked with a Russian experiment that is studying the growth of pea plants in a microgravity environment.

Commander Michael Foale used the Station’s Inventory Management System to sort clothing aboard the Station.

The crewmembers also continued preparations for their return to Earth. After spending nine days performing joint operations and handover activities with the Expedition 9 crew , Foale and Kaleri are slated to return to Earth on April 29. Expedition 9 will launch April 18 and arrive at the Station on April 21.

On the ground, NASA officials will brief reporters on the upcoming handover activities and the progress of the current crew Friday, beginning at 8 a.m. CDT (1300 GMT). NASA TV will carry the briefings live.