BIG QUESTION: 07

Weightlessness
Imagine the possibilities—whether it’s sipping bubbly in zero-gravity or pioneering new cancer treatments, microgravity unlocks new exciting opportunities for innovation. Watch playlist here.
Could protein crystallization on the ISS lead to scientific breakthroughs?
A new experiment on the International Space Station is testing the potential of protein crystallization in microgravity. Led by ASU’s Alexandra Ros and Sarah Kessans from the University of Canterbury, this groundbreaking research could revolutionize drug design and protein analysis by growing higher-quality crystals in space. Learn more about how this project could spark scientific breakthroughs and the exciting journey of these microfluidic devices in space.
What’s next for lunar menus and growing food in microgravity?
Curious about the future of food in space? NASA’s Bryan Onate joins astronaut Cady Coleman and ASU professor Andrew Maynard to dive into how scientists are developing sustainable food systems for lunar missions. From squeezing meals out of tubes to growing food in microgravity, this episode takes you on a journey into the science of space cuisine.
How can microgravity science inspire the next generation?
The ASU Interplanetary Initiative is empowering middle school educators with hands-on workshops in microgravity science, designed to ignite student curiosity and engagement in STEM. These workshops equip teachers with the tools to integrate microgravity science into their classrooms—nurturing the next generation of innovators.
Now, you can bring this experience to your organization! Host your own ISS workshop and inspire your community with the wonders of microgravity. Explore our Implementation Guide to see how your organization can get started.
How does microgravity aid in understanding infectious diseases?
Did you know that infectious disease accounts for 35% of deaths worldwide? In this exploration, Dr. Cheryl Nickerson from ASU’s Biodesign Institute and her team dive into the world of infectious diseases in space. Their research focuses on how microgravity aboard the International Space Station impacts pathogens like Salmonella, making them more potent.
Discover how space exploration is not just advancing our technology, but also helping to understand critical health challenges here on Earth.
Bob Laudner: Exploring weightlessness through art?
This month’s featured artist, Bob Lauder, explores the connection between gravity and creativity in his work. Inspired by the way our spines relax as gravity’s pull eases, his artwork envisions the weightlessness of space as a catalyst for newfound flexibility and innovation.
What excites you most about humanity working in a low-gravity environment?
