ISS Operations Update – January 25, 2016
Experiments:
SPHERES Zero Robotics [SPHERES stands for Synchronized Position Hold, Engage, Reorient, Experimental Satellites and involves two satellites that are used inside the space station to provide a miniature testbed to study maneuvering capabilities and spacecraft measurement systems. Students developed the sequences that the two bowling-ball sized microsatellites were put through. These two small satellites are used to study maneuvers in space in miniature inside the ISS.]
Combustion Integration Rack Reconfiguration for resumption of FLame Extinguishment Experiment (FLEX)-2 [FLEX-2 – FLame Extinguishment Experiment 2 – monitors the burning process of small fuel droplets to study the unique characteristics of fire in microgravity. The experiments looks at the rate and manner the fuel burns and the conditions that are necessary for soot to form. Also, the mechanisms of fuel evaporation before burning are studied to provide a better understanding of the burning process in space for improvements in liquid-fueled engines for application in space flight.]
Electrostatic Levitation Furnace (ELF) Moderate Temperature Loop Quick Disconnects Troubleshooting [The Electrostatic Levitation Furnace will provide ISS with its second Materials Science facility operating on the basis of electrostatic levitation, alongside the Electromagnetic Levitator that is active aboard the Columbus laboratory, studying fundamental principles of metallurgy. Heating and melting samples of metal alloys or other materials in a zero-G environment followed by the solidification of the sample yields a very pure material without any contaminations. The study of the solidification process and the finished product can provide valuable knowledge concerning the properties of the material that could improve production techniques on Earth for better material properties in alloys, glass and ceramics.]
Seismoprognoz Data Download [Seismoprognoz will measure the temporal and spatial scales of ionospheric disturbances caused by seismic phenomena in order to develop algorithms to detect plasma features of earthquakes and anthropogenic impacts from space-based instruments. The payload consists of an external monoblock, a Data Control and Acquisition Module, an attachment kit, flash memory and associated cables and connectors.]
Maintenance/Systems:
Nominal Inspections/Servicing Tasks (Morning Inspection, Caution & Warning Panel Check, Sozh System Maintenance) (Russian Crew)
Urine Processor Assembly (UPA) Fill Drain Valve Modification Kit Installation
Cygnus Cabin Fan Anomaly: After a gradual decline in fan performance over the course of several days, the in-cabin Cygnus fan experienced a significant degradation and had to be powered off. Portable fans are available and troubleshooting is underway.
Urine Processor Assembly – Equipment Collection
Russian Segment still cameras date and time synchronization to the station time
Other Activities:
Orbital ATK (OA)-4 Cargo Operations
Activation and Inspection of Orlan suits, Battery Installation
Pirs EVA Panel Checkout
