Space Station Science Highlights: December 13, 2024
New Research on Bone Loss in Space
Astronauts on long-duration space missions experience significant bone loss, which can lead to health problems upon their return to Earth. A new study published in the journal Bone provides new insights into this phenomenon. The study found that astronauts lose bone mass in the spine, hip, and heel at a rate of about 1% per month during their first six months in space. This rate of bone loss is much higher than what is observed in people on Earth. The study also found that astronauts who exercised regularly during their time in space lost less bone mass than those who did not exercise. These findings suggest that exercise may be an important countermeasure for bone loss in space.
3-D Printing of Human Tissue in Space
Scientists at the University of California, San Diego have successfully 3-D printed human tissue in space for the first time. The researchers used a 3-D printer to create scaffolds made of a biocompatible material. The scaffolds were then seeded with human cells, which grew into tissue. The researchers were able to create a variety of tissue types, including bone, cartilage, and muscle. This research could lead to new ways to treat injuries and diseases in space.
New Instrument to Measure Ozone in the Atmosphere
The Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite (OMPS) is a new instrument that will measure ozone levels in the atmosphere from space. OMPS is scheduled to be launched on the Joint Polar Satellite System-2 (JPSS-2) satellite in 2024. OMPS will provide data on ozone levels in the troposphere and stratosphere, which will help scientists to better understand the role of ozone in climate change.
Upcoming Events
- Dec. 15: Expedition 68 crew members Nicole Mann and Josh Cassada will conduct a spacewalk to install new solar panels on the International Space Station.
- Dec. 17: The Cygnus NG-19 cargo spacecraft will launch from the Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia. Cygnus will deliver supplies and equipment to the International Space Station.
- Dec. 19: Expedition 68 crew members Frank Rubio and Koichi Wakata will conduct a spacewalk to replace a failed cooling pump on the International Space Station.
Station Science Top News: Dec. 13, 2024
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NASA a new article on 2024-12-16 21:12 titled “Station Science Top News: Dec. 13, 2024”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
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