A recent update from NASA highlights how astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) are pushing the boundaries of long-duration spaceflight through a range of scientific and engineering efforts. Their work spans biomedical research, Earth observation, and robotics—all critical to supporting future missions beyond low Earth orbit.
The European robotic arm (top center) is pictured attached to the Nauka science module as the International Space Station soared into an orbital sunset above a cloudy Pacific Ocean. At left, the Soyuz MS-26 crew ship is pictured docked to the Rassvet module on Nov. 23, 2024. Image Credit: NASA
Astronauts recently conducted studies on cardiovascular and immune system function, maintained life support technologies, and operated the European Robotic Arm (ERA). These initiatives are helping scientists better understand how the human body adapts to microgravity, improve spacecraft systems, and lay the groundwork for missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
Background
Space presents a unique set of challenges—microgravity, radiation, and isolation among them. The ISS serves as a one-of-a-kind lab for examining these conditions in real time. Astronauts onboard take part in experiments tracking physiological changes, testing advanced life support systems, and refining robotics—all of which are vital for planning future deep-space missions.
Recent research activities included remote cardiac and immune health monitoring, robotic maintenance, and environmental data collection. Using ultrasound, doctors on Earth assessed astronauts' heart health, while crew members processed biological samples to study immune responses. They also tested a new carbon dioxide removal system and put the ERA to work on routine station maintenance.
Biomedical Research and Life Support Maintenance
Human health was a top priority during this mission segment. NASA astronaut Jonny Kim underwent cardiac scans using the ECHO ultrasound system as part of the CIPHER experiment suite, which looks at how microgravity affects heart and artery function. At the same time, JAXA Commander Takuya Onishi collected blood and saliva samples for the Immunity Assay, a study of spaceflight’s effects on the immune system. Insights from these experiments will guide future countermeasures for long-duration space travel.
The crew also focused on upgrading environmental systems. They enhanced the Thermal Amine Scrubber, a prototype device that removes carbon dioxide from cabin air while recovering water to help generate oxygen. NASA Flight Engineer Nichole Ayers led the upgrade, with support from Kim and Onishi. Improvements like these could cut down the need for resupply missions and make future space habitats more self-sufficient.
Robotics, Earth Observations, and Station Upkeep
NASA Flight Engineer Anne McClain contributed to robotics and materials research by swapping out samples in the Materials Science Laboratory and configuring the Astrobee free-flyer for autonomous docking tests. These projects support the development of smarter robotics and more resilient materials for future missions.
Meanwhile, Roscosmos Flight Engineer Sergey Ryzhikov deployed equipment for Earth observation studies, capturing images of natural disasters and atmospheric phenomena at night. On the robotics front, Flight Engineer Kirill Peskov activated the European Robotic Arm to inspect the docking port on the Rassvet module. The ERA, attached to the Nauka module, is essential for cargo handling and station maintenance.
The team also tackled logistical tasks like stowing equipment and managing water transfers from a Progress cargo vehicle—routine, but essential, for keeping the station running smoothly.
Conclusion
The latest round of research and operations aboard the ISS highlights the station’s importance as a platform for advancing space science and technology. From detailed biomedical studies to cutting-edge robotics, these efforts bring us closer to sustained human presence beyond Earth. Technologies like the Thermal Amine Scrubber and autonomous robotics will be key as space missions venture farther and last longer.
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