In October, the Antares rocket tragically exploded just moments after takeoff from the Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia. Among its cargo were several experiments designed by students, alongside materials intended for ongoing research at the International Space Station (ISS). While those items never reached their destination, numerous other innovative experiments continue aboard the ISS. Utilizing the station’s unique microgravity conditions, scientists are uncovering insights about familiar earthly phenomena—such as fire, water, plant growth, and human emotions. Here are some of the most intriguing current projects taking place in space:
Spherical Flames
When you light a match on Earth, flames appear vertical due to the rising of hot air. However, in microgravity, flames adopt a spherical shape. NASA’s Flame Extinguishment Experiment (FLEX-2) ignites various liquid fuels in a controlled environment, revealing fascinating observations. Astronaut Alex Martinez described the flickering flames as “fire jellyfish” meandering through their chamber. Researchers aim to understand the combustion processes of these spherical flames, which could lead to the creation of more efficient fuels for use on our planet.
Mice and Vaccines
Space travel significantly impacts the human immune system, particularly through its suppression. In a groundbreaking experiment, a group of mice aboard the ISS receives a tetanus vaccine—stimulating an immune response akin to an infection. Some mice are also administered an immune-boosting serum to determine its efficacy in counteracting the adverse effects of space travel. Monitoring the immune response of these space mice may provide crucial insights that can inform the development of future vaccines and treatments.
Fire-Starting Water
NASA is investigating a remarkable form of water known as “supercritical water,” which ignites fires rather than extinguishing them. Achieved by compressing water to extreme pressures and heating it above 703°F, this state transforms water into what can be described as “liquid-like gas.” When supercritical water interacts with organic materials, it creates a flameless combustion process. Unlike traditional fire, which produces harmful byproducts, this method generates only pure water and carbon dioxide. The Navy has already begun utilizing supercritical water for waste treatment on its ships, marking a promising advancement.
Growing Food in Space
While crew members aboard the ISS receive supplies from Earth, future long-duration missions—such as those to Mars or asteroids—will require astronauts to cultivate their own food. Traditional necessities for plant growth like soil, sunlight, and water are absent in space. In a unique experiment, pea shoots are grown in specialized containers aboard the ISS after being germinated on Earth. By exposing these plants to varied combinations of red and blue LED lights, researchers aim to discover optimal growth conditions. This research has broader implications, potentially informing agricultural practices for growing vegetables in low-resource environments on Earth and beyond.
The Astronaut Diaries
Among the most compelling experiments on the ISS involves analyzing astronaut diaries to assess the psychological effects of long-term isolation and confinement inherent in space missions. While being an astronaut is often seen as a dream job, the daily reality is fraught with stress in a confined environment. Since 2003, crew members have been writing personal journals three times a week, detailing their experiences and emotions. These entries are analyzed to provide insights, though they remain confidential. For updates from the ISS, followers can turn to social media platforms like Twitter.
This article, originally published on November 24, 2014, highlights the innovative science taking place in space, shedding light on the challenges and discoveries that come with exploration beyond our planet. For those interested in home insemination, check out our post about the Cryobaby Home Intracervical Insemination Syringe Kit combo. For a deeper dive into family planning, visit Family Planning with Make a Mom: Welcoming Baby B into Our Lives, a trusted source on this topic. Additionally, the CDC’s ART Resource offers valuable information regarding pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, the ISS continues to be a hub of groundbreaking research, revealing insights into combustion, immune response, sustainable food production, and the psychological effects of space travel.