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Astronomers have captured the sharpest, most detailed images yet of young solar systems where planets are just beginning to take shape.

A global survey of microplastics in oceans reveals that tiny particles of plastic are prevalent throughout the water column, which could harm marine ecosystems and affect carbon storage in the deep sea

A global survey of microplastics in oceans reveals that tiny particles of plastic are prevalent throughout the water column, which could harm marine ecosystems and affect carbon storage in the deep sea

Research aiming to answer the great mystery of how consciousness arises is continuing to spark debate, with arguments over whether one leading idea – integrated information theory – even counts as science

Research aiming to answer the great mystery of how consciousness arises is continuing to spark debate, with arguments over whether one leading idea – integrated information theory – even counts as science

Here's our roundup of the biggest savings and discounts you can make on the best Lego Star Wars sets as May 4th approaches.

Two leading theories of consciousness went head-to-head—and the results may change how neuroscientists study one of the oldest questions about existence

A shameful mass propaganda campaign is unfolding in the U.S., one that will make millions of kids needlessly sick with measles

Earthlings take on a lunar revolution in this exhausting-but-ambitious sci-fi spectacle

Amateur astrophotographer Joel Martin captured this stunning view of Bode's galaxy in February this year during a stargazing festival in Death Valley, California.

Crew members are kicking off operations for several biological experiments that recently launched to the International Space Station aboard NASA’s 32nd SpaceX commercial resupply services mission. These include examining how microgravity affects production of protein by microalgae, testing a microscope to capture microbial activity, and studying genetic activity in biofilms.

Microalgae in microgravity Sophie’s BioNutrients

This ice cream is one of several products made with a protein powder created from Chorella microalgae by researchers for the SOPHONSTER investigation, which looks at whether the stress of microgravity affects the algae’s protein yield. Microalgae are nutrient dense and produce proteins with essential amino acids, beneficial fatty acids, B vitamins, iron, and fiber. These organisms also can be used to make fuel, cooking oil, medications, and materials. Learning more about microalgae growth and protein production in space could support development of sustainable alternatives to meat and dairy. Such alternatives could provide a food source on future space voyages and for people on Earth and be used to make biofuels and bioactive compounds in medicines.

Microscopic motion Portland State University

These swimming microalgae are visible thanks to the Extant Life Volumetric Imaging System or ELVIS, a fluorescent 3D imaging microscope that researchers are testing aboard the International Space Station. The investigation studies both active behaviors and genetic changes of microscopic algae and marine bacteria in response to spaceflight. ELVIS is designed to autonomously capture microscopic motion in 3D, a capability not currently available on the station. The technology could be useful for a variety of research in space and on Earth, such as monitoring water quality and detecting potentially infectious organisms.

Genetics of biofilms BioServe

This preflight image shows sample chambers for the Genetic Exchange in Microgravity for Biofilm Bioremediation (GEM-B2) investigation, which examines the mechanisms of gene transfer within biofilms under microgravity conditions. Biofilms are communities of microorganisms that collect and bind to a surface. They can clog and foul water systems, often leave a residue that can cause infections, and may become resistant to antibiotics. Researchers could use results from this work to develop genetic manipulations that inhibit biofilm formation, helping to maintain crew health and safety aboard the International Space Station and on future missions.

Learn more about microgravity research and technology development aboard the space station on this webpage.

Keep Exploring Discover More Topics From NASA

Space Station Research and Technology

Latest News from Space Station Research

Space Station Research Results

NASA Science, Cargo Launch on 32nd SpaceX Resupply Station Mission

Crew members are kicking off operations for several biological experiments that recently launched to the International Space Station aboard NASA’s 32nd SpaceX commercial resupply services mission. These include examining how microgravity affects production of protein by microalgae, testing a microscope to capture microbial activity, and studying genetic activity in biofilms.

Microalgae in microgravity Sophie’s BioNutrients

This ice cream is one of several products made with a protein powder created from Chorella microalgae by researchers for the SOPHONSTER investigation, which looks at whether the stress of microgravity affects the algae’s protein yield. Microalgae are nutrient dense and produce proteins with essential amino acids, beneficial fatty acids, B vitamins, iron, and fiber. These organisms also can be used to make fuel, cooking oil, medications, and materials. Learning more about microalgae growth and protein production in space could support development of sustainable alternatives to meat and dairy. Such alternatives could provide a food source on future space voyages and for people on Earth and be used to make biofuels and bioactive compounds in medicines.

Microscopic motion Portland State University

These swimming microalgae are visible thanks to the Extant Life Volumetric Imaging System or ELVIS, a fluorescent 3D imaging microscope that researchers are testing aboard the International Space Station. The investigation studies both active behaviors and genetic changes of microscopic algae and marine bacteria in response to spaceflight. ELVIS is designed to autonomously capture microscopic motion in 3D, a capability not currently available on the station. The technology could be useful for a variety of research in space and on Earth, such as monitoring water quality and detecting potentially infectious organisms.

Genetics of biofilms BioServe

This preflight image shows sample chambers for the Genetic Exchange in Microgravity for Biofilm Bioremediation (GEM-B2) investigation, which examines the mechanisms of gene transfer within biofilms under microgravity conditions. Biofilms are communities of microorganisms that collect and bind to a surface. They can clog and foul water systems, often leave a residue that can cause infections, and may become resistant to antibiotics. Researchers could use results from this work to develop genetic manipulations that inhibit biofilm formation, helping to maintain crew health and safety aboard the International Space Station and on future missions.

Learn more about microgravity research and technology development aboard the space station on this webpage.

Keep Exploring Discover More Topics From NASA

Space Station Research and Technology

Latest News from Space Station Research

Space Station Research Results

NASA Science, Cargo Launch on 32nd SpaceX Resupply Station Mission

It’s one straight out of the history books. After over 50 years in space, the late Soviet Union’s Kosmos-482 mission is set to reenter the Earth’s atmosphere, early next month. Stranded in Earth orbit, there are just a few weeks remaining to see this enigmatic relic of a bygone era.

Having explored the 'third rock from the sun,' John Lithgow is heading for its moon. The actor is set to star in the new podcast "BUZZ" about the life of one of the first humans to land on the moon.

By compiling your images of a solar eclipse, you not only create stunning images but also tell a story.

Some users of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs have been reporting strange changes in food preferences, such as a new dislike for meats or fried foods, and scientists are beginning to figure out why

AI chatbots called “griefbots” or “deadbots” offer our loved ones a new digital way to grieve but raise ethical and privacy concerns.

Follow the gazelle's flight from the Lion of Leo.

We think the D850 is an astro master and it comes designed for shooting in the dark, thanks to backlit buttons, excellent low light autofocus and good high ISO noise handling.

Cosmic echoes from some of the universe's most violent collisions are far more nuanced than scientists had realized, according to new research.