Prepared by: Mustafa Al-Zoubi
The Expedition 70 crew on the International Space Station concluded the work week with microbiology, bioprinting and ultrasound scanning, completing cardiac research, fluid physics and the orbital barrier microgravity science schedule.
Researchers are exploring how to identify and disinfect microbes to protect spacecraft and their crews traveling longer and farther from Earth. Uncontrolled microbial growth represents a potential threat to spacecraft, which could lead to system contamination and corrosion, and affect the health of space crews.
NASA aerospace engineers Yasmine Moghbeli and Loral O’Hara collaborated and looked for ways to control the growth of microbes inside the Kibo laboratory unit, and took turns processing bacteria samples in Kibo’s life sciences glove box to help scientists learn how to enhance… Successful long-range spaceflights and protection of harsh environments on Earth.
3D bioprinting shows the possibility of manufacturing human organs in space from a patient’s existing cells. The samples are then stored in an advanced sample processor for incubation, allowing the tissue to form cohesively, under conditions of microgravity.
