What's Happening?
NASA's Expedition 73 team on the International Space Station (ISS) is concluding a week of scientific research and preparation for the arrival of new crew members. The team has been engaged in fluid physics
and stem cell research, which could have implications for in-space manufacturing and medical treatments. NASA Flight Engineer Zena Cardman has been working with fluid samples and stem cells, aiming to understand how microgravity affects these materials. The research could lead to advancements in optical materials and treatments for cardiac and neurological disorders. Additionally, the crew has been unpacking supplies from Northrop Grumman's Cygnus XL cargo spacecraft, which delivered over 11,000 pounds of cargo. The Cygnus XL is set to be uninstalled from the ISS on November 24, making way for the arrival of the Roscosmos Soyuz MS-28 spacecraft on November 27. This spacecraft will bring NASA astronaut Chris Williams and Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergey Mikaev and Sergey Kud-Sverchkov to the ISS.
Why It's Important?
The ongoing research and preparations on the ISS are crucial for advancing scientific knowledge and supporting future space missions. The fluid physics and stem cell studies could lead to significant breakthroughs in commercial manufacturing and medical treatments, potentially benefiting industries and healthcare systems on Earth. The arrival of new crew members is essential for maintaining the ISS's operations and continuing its scientific endeavors. The coordination between NASA, Northrop Grumman, and Roscosmos highlights international collaboration in space exploration, which is vital for the success of complex missions. The efficient management of cargo and crew transitions ensures the ISS remains a hub for scientific research and international cooperation.
What's Next?
The next steps involve the docking of the Soyuz MS-28 spacecraft on November 27, which will bring new crew members to the ISS. This transition is critical for the continuation of scientific research and the maintenance of the station. The Cygnus XL cargo spacecraft will be reattached to the ISS on December 1 and will remain until March 2026, when it will depart and dispose of trash during its re-entry into Earth's atmosphere. The arrival of new crew members will enable the continuation of research and maintenance activities, ensuring the ISS remains operational and productive.
