In October, the Antares rocket tragically exploded shortly after launching from the Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia. Among its cargo were student-created experiments and materials intended for ongoing research aboard the International Space Station (ISS). While those materials were lost, the ISS continues to host a variety of groundbreaking experiments, enabling scientists to explore the behavior of familiar phenomena—such as fire, water, plants, and even human emotions—under microgravity conditions. Here are some of the most intriguing studies currently taking place in space:
Spherical Flames
On Earth, when you light a match, the flame rises vertically due to the natural convection of hot air. However, in the microgravity environment of the ISS, flames adopt a spherical shape. In an experiment known as the Flame Extinguishment Experiment (FLEX-2), different fuel droplets are ignited within a controlled chamber. NASA astronaut Tom Harrison described the flickering, floating flames he observed as “fire jellyfish,” giving them an almost alive quality. Researchers are investigating these spherical flames to understand soot formation and combustion rates, which could lead to the development of more efficient fuels for use on Earth.
Vaccination Studies in Space
Spaceflight can have significant effects on the human immune system, including its suppression. In one experiment, mice aboard the ISS are administered a tetanus vaccine that mimics the immune response triggered by an infection. Some mice will also receive an immune-boosting serum to determine whether it can counteract the immunosuppressive effects of space travel. Observing the immune responses of these space mice may provide insights into the development of vaccines and therapeutic approaches for improving health during extended space missions.
Combustible Water
Researchers aboard the ISS are investigating a unique state of water known as “supercritical water.” This form of water occurs when it is subjected to extreme pressure and heated beyond 703°F, transforming into a substance that exhibits properties of both liquids and gases. When supercritical water interacts with organic materials, it can initiate a flameless combustion process. Unlike traditional fires that produce harmful byproducts, the combustion of supercritical water results in only pure water and carbon dioxide. The Navy has already implemented supercritical water technology for waste treatment on its vessels, indicating a promising avenue for future applications.
Growing Food in Space
While ISS crew members receive food supplies from Earth, long-duration missions to asteroids or Mars will require astronauts to cultivate their own food. Traditional agricultural elements—such as soil, sunlight, and water—are absent in space. In one experiment, pea shoots are germinated on Earth and sent to the ISS in specialized containers designed for microgravity growth. By varying light conditions using red and blue LED lights, researchers can optimize growth rates. The insights gained from these experiments not only benefit space exploration but also aid in developing efficient agricultural practices on Earth, especially in low-resource environments.
Emotional Well-Being in Space
One of the most compelling studies aboard the ISS involves the analysis of astronaut journals to explore the emotional and psychological impacts of long-term isolation. Although being an astronaut may seem appealing, daily life in space can be stressful and cramped. Since 2003, crew members have documented their experiences three times a week, providing valuable insights into their mental health and coping strategies. While these entries remain confidential, updates from the ISS can be found on social media platforms.
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In summary, the International Space Station is a hub of innovative experiments that deepen our understanding of various scientific principles and human health in space. From studying combustion in microgravity to exploring the psychological effects of isolation, each study contributes to our knowledge and prepares us for future space exploration and its challenges.