Advancing science, tech, and global cooperation in orbit

Advancing science, tech, and global cooperation in orbit

The International Space Station (ISS) continues to serve as humanity’s premier laboratory in low Earth orbit, advancing scientific discovery, testing new technologies, and strengthening international cooperation in space.  Orbiting approximately 400 kilometers above Earth, the ISS remains a symbol of what sustained global partnership can achieve beyond our planet. Ongoing Scientific Research A core mission of the ISS is scientific research in microgravity, where conditions enable experiments impossible on Earth.  Current investigations span biology, human health, physics, and Earth science.  Researchers are studying how prolonged exposure to microgravity affects muscles, bones, vision, and the immune system—knowledge that directly supports future long-duration missions to the Moon and Mars.  At the same time, materials science experiments are helping scientists better understand fluid behavior, combustion, and crystal growth, with applications ranging from medicine to manufacturing. Crew Ope…