Astronauts to Conduct ISS National Lab Research on SpaceX Crew-13 Mission

Four astronauts are preparing for launch to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard NASA's SpaceX Crew-13 mission. During their six-month expedition, the crew will support hundreds of scientific investigations, including multiple projects sponsored by the ISS National Lab aimed at benefiting life on Earth and fostering a robust low Earth orbit economy.

The mission is scheduled to launch no earlier than October 1 from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The research areas encompass biomanufacturing, regenerative medicine, physical sciences, and technology development. These projects aim to advance biomedical innovations, fundamental science, and STEM education.

Key investigations include studies on neuroinflammation using neural organoid models, the growth of cardiac spheroids for cardiovascular disease research, and the development of 3D-bioprinted liver tissue constructs. These efforts seek to advance treatments for neurodegenerative conditions and potentially lead to in-space production of tissues for transplants.

Additionally, the mission will facilitate fundamental science studies funded by the National Science Foundation, examining phenomena like catastrophic mudflows and alloy melting in microgravity. Student-led experiments, such as those from the Genes in Space program focusing on protein production, are also part of the research agenda.