Enter the realm of low Earth orbit, where the International Space Station (ISS) serves as a beacon of innovation and a testament to human ingenuity. The ISS National Laboratory® sponsors groundbreaking research and development (R&D) pioneering new technologies. This photo essay invites you to learn more about specific projects that showcase how researchers, companies, and organizations are taking advantage of the unique conditions available through the ISS National Lab—microgravity, extreme conditions, and a unique vantage point—to solve significant technology development challenges and pave the way for breakthroughs that benefit humanity here on Earth. Prepare to be captivated by the space-based R&D now advancing technology and commercializing products approximately 250 miles above our heads.
Radiation Protection
Developed by StemRad and Lockheed Martin, the AstroRad Vest provides personal radiation protection for astronauts when traveling beyond low Earth orbit.
Reducing Disease Spread on Surfaces
Boeing partnered the University of Queensland on an investigation that could help reduce diseases transmitted from touching surfaces in settings such as aircraft cabins, healthcare facilities, or public transportation.
Sensors for Earth Monitoring
Through testing on the exterior of the ISS, startup Orbital Sidekick advanced its hyperspectral sensor technology and now operates a constellation of commercial satellites that provide valuable Earth monitoring services to help customers find pipeline leaks, assess crop health, identify wildfire risks, and more.
Robotic Helpers Test Technologies
NASA’s Astrobees, a trio of free-flying robots on the ISS, are testing valuable new technologies, such as specialized microphone technology that can identify anomalies in equipment and spacecraft by interpreting changes in sound.
Computing in Space
Can an unmodified commercial off-the-shelf computer use specially designed software to withstand the harsh conditions of space? Hewlett Packard Enterprise’s Spaceborne Computer-1 (SBC-1) and its follow-on mission, SBC-2, took on the challenge.
Robotics in Challenging Environments
California-based startup Gitai launched an autonomous robotic arm system to the ISS to test its ability to operate in the harsh space environment and in potentially dangerous environments on Earth like deep sea excavation or disaster relief.
Experiencing the Space Station Through VR
Using a specialized virtual reality (VR) camera on the ISS, Felix & Paul Studios is allowing people on Earth to see the world through the eyes of astronauts on station through “The Infinite” experience.
Combating Orbital Debris
To develop technology that can safely deorbit passive objects containing liquid in space, like satellites carrying fuel, Airbus conducted the SPHERES Tether Slosh investigation.
In-Orbit Refueling Solutions
Orbit Fab’s Gas Stations in Space™ are paving the way for a more sustainable space-based economy with in-orbit fueling capabilities.
Bubble Dynamics
University of Notre Dame scientists sent bubble dynamics research to the ISS to help improve medical diagnostics and potential new methods for water purification.
Materials Science and Robotics
A scientist who devoted her career to helping people who lost limbs took her company’s research to space to develop lifelike prosthetics.
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