📷 Image Credits: SciTechDaily
In the realm of space exploration, crew members aboard the International Space Station (ISS) are dedicated to a multitude of tasks to enhance their living conditions and conduct cutting-edge scientific research. The week started with preparations for upcoming spacewalks and an array of advanced microgravity experiments. With seven Expedition 71 crew members and two astronauts on NASA’s Boeing Crew Flight Test mission, the focus was on spacewalk readiness, system maintenance, and extensive scientific investigations.
The crew members, including NASA Flight Engineers like Matthew Dominick, Mike Barratt, and Jeanette Epps, were engaged in various activities such as preparing spacesuits, cleaning cooling loops, and working on space botany hardware for future plant experiments. Each astronaut had a specific set of tasks to fulfill, ranging from setting up biomedical gear to conducting research on drug delivery systems and other healthcare-related studies.
Moreover, NASA and Boeing are gearing up for discussions on the Starliner mission and its departure from the ISS as part of NASA’s Crew Flight Test program. Factor in additional tasks like testing 3D printers, studying vibrations experienced in space, and maintaining various components of the space station, and it’s clear that the crew’s schedule is packed with important scientific activities.
With two spacewalks scheduled for June 24 and July 2, the astronauts have a busy period ahead, including tasks like replacing faulty hardware, swabbing station surfaces, and preparing equipment for future upgrades. The dedication and commitment of the ISS crew to advancing scientific knowledge in a unique environment like space are truly commendable, setting the stage for groundbreaking discoveries and innovations in the realm of space exploration.