ISS Operations Update – March 29, 2016
Experiments:
Marrow – Blood, Breath & Air Sampling [The MARROW study, known by its full name Bone Marrow Adipose Reaction: Red Or White?, looks at the effect of microgravity on the human bone marrow. It is known that prolonged exposure to microgravity, just like long bed rest on Earth, has a negative effect on bone marrow and the production of blood cells. The extent of this effect and possible recovery are of interest in space research and for application on Earth.]
Calf Volume Measurements – PZEh-MO-7 [These measurements are done with the IZOG device which is a custom-sewn fabric cuff that fits over the calf. The knee and lower foot of the left leg are used as reference points. The measurements provide a rough index of deconditioning in Zero-G and can be used to assess countermeasures.]
Otklik Experiment Hardware Check [Otklik uses several piezoelectric sensors to track the impacts of small particles and debris on the exterior of the International Space Station to monitor the abundance of debris events and a series of other characteristics. These measurements provide valuable data for the construction of future spacecraft]
Gecko Gripper Setup and Operations [The Gecko Gripper investigation tests a gecko-adhesive gripping device that can stick on command in the microgravity environment. Geckos have specialized hairs on their feet, known as setae, that allow them to stick to vertical surfaces and their stickiness does not wear over repeated use. The use of this type of technology is hoped to enable many new capabilities such as robotic crawlers that could grip to spacecraft exteriors, manipulator systems capable of catching and releasing objects, and sensor mounts capable of working on any surface.]
Exposed Facility Unit (EFU) Adapter, Global Positioning System (GPS)/Wheel Demo Unit Installation on Kibo Airlock Slide Table
Circadian Rhythms Experiment – Thermolab Study [The BLR48 and Circadian Rhythms Study will examine the role of synchronized circadian rhythms and possible maintenance during long-duration spaceflight and addresses the impacts to crew members’ health and wellbeing. Understanding how the dark/light cycle and sleep shifting affects circadian rhythms and with that the performance of the crew members will enable scientists to develop new sleep shifting techniques for crew members in space and shift workers on Earth.]
Vzir Experiment Operations and Tagup [Vzir (Viewfinder) uses the SKPF-U (Photo Image Coordinate Reference System) hardware, a photo image coordinate reference system using ultrasound sensors and a camera for general target views.]
Systems/Maintenance:
Nominal Inspections/Servicing Tasks (Morning Inspection, Caution & Warning Panel Check, Sozh System Maintenance) (Russian Crew)
Compound Specific Analyzer-Combustion Products (CPA-CP) Maintenance
Sound Level Meter Measurements
Progress M-29M Spacecraft Activation, Air Duct Removal, Docking Mechanism Installation, Hatch Closure, Leak Checks
Other Activities:
Onboard Training: Approach and Capture Procedures Training
TORU Onboard Training for Progress Docking
ESA Weekly Crew Conference
PAO Event