Experiment PROMISS-3 is a part of the scientific research program to be conducted by ESA astronaut of the Dutch nationality Andre Kuipers onboard the ISS RS in the frame of DSM Delta Project, and is an extension of experiments PROMISS-2 (SSM Cervantes Project) and PROMISS (Odissea Project). The European Space Agency is a customer of the preparation and implementation of the research program.

USED SCIENCE HARDWARE:

• PROMISS-2 experiment box
  with digital holographic microscope
• PROMISS-2 Kit 1
  with electronics box and cables
• PROMISS-2 Kit 2
  including clamp, and wheel with 6 reactors
• PROMISS-3 Kit 2
  with experiment samples, protein solutions
• AQUARIUS incubator
  to stow biological samples till the download.

CONSUMABLES:

• PROMISS-3 Kit 1
  with mini DV videotapes (12 pcs.) and
  PROMISS-3 return container.

PURPOSE:

Investigate the protein growth processes in microgravity condition using the counter-diffusion technique.

OBJECTIVES:

• To measure the parameters of the growing protein crystals
• To measure the composition changes (in depletion zone) of liquid around the growing protein crystals
• To use holographic microscope for optical monitoring of the crystal growth mechanisms in microgravity conditions.

EXPERIMENT RESULTS:

Biological materials to be returned to the ground from the ISS, as well as experiment video recording.