Experiment MICROSPACE forms part of the scientific research program performed by Italian Astronaut Roberto Vittori (ESA) on the Russian Segment of the ISS in the frame of ENEIDE ISM Project. The European Space Agency is a customer of the preparation and implementation of the research program.

USED SCIENCE HARDWARE:

• Pouch 1
• Pouch 2
• Pouch 3

Three identical pouches filled with microbial cultures are used in the experiment. Each pouch contains four sub-packages (1-1/4 – 1-4/4). Each of sub-packages contains three Sigma tubes with 8 cryotubes (with lyophilized cultures). The fourth sub-package in one of Sigma tubes contains a temperature data logger. Each sub-package is sealed in a plastic bag. Two dosimeters are additionally placed in the first sub-package in Pouch-3.

Pouch 1 for MICROSPACE experiment

Sub-package 1-1/4 containing three Sigma tubes

Cryotubes with lyophilized cultures

SUPPORT FACILITIES:

• Camera Nikon D1X.

PURPOSE:

Study the response of representative non pathogenic microorganisms to the space flight environment.

OBJECTIVE:

Exposure of microorganisms on the ISS RS.

EXPERIMENT RESULTS:

Lyophilized cultures exposed on the ISS RS and returned to the ground.