The Expedition 73 crew aboard the International Space Station (ISS) has been occupied with a variety of tasks, including scientific research, maintenance, and preparations for the arrival of a new crew. This week's activities highlight the ongoing efforts to understand human adaptation to space and the continuous operation of the orbiting laboratory.
The crew conducted several research projects. These included studies on human health in microgravity using the Bio-Monitor instrument, and the use of VR goggles for vestibular system research. Furthermore, they also worked on the Drain Brain 2.0 project, which measures blood flow in the brain. Additionally, the crew used the Extant Life Volumetric Imaging System (Elvis) to observe deep-sea bacteria samples.
The crew also dedicated time to maintaining the space station's systems. This included moving hardware, replacing computer components, and updating firmware. Moreover, they prepared for the arrival of Axiom Space's Ax-4 mission. The Ax-4 mission is scheduled to arrive aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, bringing new crew members for a short-term science mission. The ISS continues to be a hub of international collaboration and scientific discovery.
As of Friday, June 6, the ISS is crewed by seven individuals from NASA, JAXA, and Roscosmos. The station has been continuously crewed for over 24 years, demonstrating a sustained commitment to space exploration and research. The ongoing activities and upcoming missions underscore the ISS's vital role in advancing our understanding of space and its impact on humanity.