Author Topic: Expedition 53 Thread  (Read 68424 times)

Offline centaurinasa

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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #120 on: 11/05/2017 10:02 am »
A view of MT, right now...
To boldly go where no human has gone before !

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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #121 on: 11/06/2017 08:46 am »
The crew mentioned to Houston that they observed, and were able to photograph, a sizable re-entry last night.  Paolo has apparently witnessed similar events previously and the crew noted the re-entry was on several frames of imagery and that the ground was illuminated prior to presumed impact.  Houston noted that they were "perusing" the internet for possible correlating events after noting the crew note on the incident this morning.
Best quote heard during an inspection, "I was unaware that I was the only one who was aware."

Online jacqmans

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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #122 on: 11/06/2017 02:04 pm »
November 06, 2017
MEDIA ADVISORY M17-131

Virginia Students to Speak with NASA Astronauts on Space Station
 
Students at Pole Green Elementary School in Mechanicsville, Virginia, will speak with the NASA astronauts living, working and doing research aboard the International Space Station at 9:45 a.m. EST on Wednesday, Nov. 8. The 20-minute, Earth-to-space call will air live on NASA Television and the agency’s website.

Randy Bresnik, Mark Vande Hei and Joe Acaba will be asked questions by select students. The discussion will include topics about life aboard the space station, NASA’s deep space exploration plans, and doing science in space.
This is Bresnik’s second mission to the station. He currently is serving as the station’s Expedition 53 commander after launching to the orbiting laboratory on July 28. He’s scheduled to return to Earth in December. Vande Hei and Acaba both arrived at the space station on Sept. 12. This is Vande Hei’s first space mission and Acaba’s third. Together they will return to Earth in February 2018.

Pole Green was selected through a competitive process to host a downlink with the station. To prepare for the event, the school plans for a full day of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) lessons and activities for the students. Industry partners supporting the day’s events include the U.S. Navy, Virginia Commonwealth Engineering, Hanover High School robotics, and Math Science Innovation Center of Richmond. Additionally, the teachers are educating the students on the history of the space program, the space station and the astronauts’ backgrounds.

“Our focus is on providing students with the opportunity to see beyond their community,” said Lori Schoenwiesner, a teacher at Pole Green Elementary School. “They can and will be an important part of their country's future and we believe they deserve the opportunity to see their possibilities now so they can prepare for them.”
Media interested in attending the event should contact Chris Whitley via email at [email protected] or phone at 804-365-4500. Pole Green Elementary School is at 8993 Pole Green Park Lane in Mechanicsville.

Linking students directly to astronauts aboard the space station provides unique, authentic experiences designed to enhance student learning, performance and interest in STEM. This in-flight education downlink is an integral component of NASA’s Year of Education on Station which provides extensive space station-related resources and opportunities to students and educators.

Follow the astronauts on social media:

https://www.twitter.com/NASA_astronauts/

See videos and lesson plans highlighting research on the International Space Station at:

 https://www.nasa.gov/stemonstation/
« Last Edit: 11/06/2017 02:04 pm by jacqmans »
Jacques :-)

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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #123 on: 11/06/2017 02:46 pm »

ISS Daily Summary Report – 11/03/2017
 

VEG-03 Science Harvest: The crew cut one to three leaves from each plant for consumption and then preserved them in foil and inserted them into cold stowage for science data. The remainder of the plants will be left to grow and sprout new leaves.  The Veg-03 investigation uses the Veggie plant growth facility to cultivate a type of cabbage, lettuce and mizuna which are harvested on-orbit with samples returned to Earth for testing. Organisms grow differently in space, from single-celled bacteria to plants and humans. Future long-duration space missions will require crew members to grow their own food, so understanding how plants respond to microgravity is an important step toward that goal. Veg-03 uses the Veggie plant growth facility to cultivate a type of cabbage, lettuce and mizuna which are harvested on-orbit with samples returned to Earth for testing.

Multi-Omics Sample Collections: A 52S crewmember collected saliva samples and completed a questionnaire for the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) Multi-Omics experiment. The samples were placed into the Minus Eighty Degree Celsius Laboratory Freezer for ISS (MELFI). The Multi-omics analysis of human microbial-metabolic cross-talk in the space ecosystem (Multi-Omics) investigation evaluates the impacts of space environment and prebiotics on astronauts’ immune function, by combining the data obtained from the measurements of changes in the gut microbiological composition, metabolites profiles, and the immune system.

Space Headaches:  The crew completed the weekly questionnaire for the ESA Space Headaches investigation. The Space Headaches investigation collects information that may help in the development of methods to alleviate associated symptoms and improvement in the well-being and performance of crewmembers in space. Headaches during space flight can negatively affect mental and physical capacities of crewmembers that can influence performance during a space mission.

Node 3 to Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM) Fine Leak Check:  Today, the crew utilized the Internal Sampling Adapter (ISA), Vacuum Access Jumper (VAJ), Multimeter, and ISA Scopemeter Pressure Probe to depress the Node 3 to PMM vestibule to 5 psi for a fine leak check of the Node 3 to PMM Vestibule.  The leak check was successful.

Spare External (EXT) Enhanced Processor and Integrated Communications (EPIC) Multiplexer/Demultiplexer (MDM) Build:  The crew configured and tested a spare EXT EPIC MDM.  The MDM was upgraded by swapping the Enhanced (ENH) Input/Output (I/O) Control Unit circuit card for a Pentium I/O Control Unit circuit card and connecting an EXT MDM Ethernet Cover to the new card. Then, the MDM On Orbit Tester (MOOT) hardware/software system was used to perform an IVA functionality test of the new EXT EPIC MDM and reconfigure software on the new EPIC card.  The checkout was successful.  Finally, they removed and replaced the Chotherm on the MDM. Chotherm provides a thermal barrier between MDM Chassis and coldplate.

On-Board Training (OBT) Cygnus Rendezvous: In preparation for Orbital ATK 8 (OA-8) launch, the crew performed this proficiency training on the Cygnus profile including rendezvous crew procedures and crew interfaces for monitoring and commanding the vehicle. Cygnus is scheduled to launch Saturday, November 11th with capture and berthing Monday, November 13th.

Mobile Serving System (MSS) Operations:  Robotic Ground Controllers powered up the MSS and are maneuvering the Space Station Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS) and the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator (SPDM) as required to use SPDM Arm1 to transfer the spare Main Bus Switching Unit (MBSU) from the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) Orbital Replacement Unit (ORU) Transfer Interface (JOTI) on the JEM Airlock Slide Table to SPDM Enhanced ORU Temporary Platform (EOTP) Side 2.  Once this has been completed the Robotics Ground Controllers will configure the SPDM and SSRMS for translation and then translate the Mobile Transporter (MT) from Worksite 7 (WS7) to WS3.
Jacques :-)

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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #124 on: 11/07/2017 01:55 pm »

ISS Daily Summary Report – 11/06/2017
 

MBSU transfer and installation:  On Friday, ground controllers attempted to transfer the recently repaired spare Main Bus Switching Unit (MBSU) through the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) Airlock (A/L) and install it on its stowage location on External Stowage Platform 2 (ESP2).  The JEM A/L outer door opened as commanded, but the slide table did not respond to ground commanding via the Airlock Control & Display Unit- Remote Control (ACDU-RC).  The crew was able to command the slide table (bypassing the ACDU-RC) to extend outside on Saturday.  Robotics operations proceeded nominally after that and the MBSU was installed in its stowage location.

Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) Airlock:  After the MBSU transfer over the weekend, the JEM A/L was repressurized and the slide table was brought into the JEM.  The JEM ORU Transfer Interface (JOTI) was removed and Multi-Purpose Experiment Platform (MPEP) was installed in preparation for upcoming an upcoming NanoRacks CubeSat Deployer (NRCSD) deployment series.

Microbial Tracking-2:  Over the weekend and today, a 52S crewmember took saliva samples to support the Microbial Tracking-2 investigation. The Microbial Tracking series-2 continues the monitoring of the types of microbes that are present on the International Space Station (ISS). It seeks to catalog and characterize potential disease-causing microorganisms aboard the ISS. Crew samples from pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight times in addition to environmental samples from ISS surface and air locations will be collected to analyze any associations between the microbial content of the samples, as well as potential health effects.

Lighting Effects:  A 52S crewmember conducted the second half of a two week long Sleep Shift session by tracking his daily sleep patterns and wakefulness. The Lighting Effects investigation studies the impact of the change from fluorescent light bulbs to solid-state light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with adjustable intensity and color and aims to determine if the new lights can improve crew circadian rhythms, sleep, and cognitive performance.

Astrobee JEM Pressurized Module (JPM) Mapping: To develop a programing map of the ISS, today the crew configured digital camera equipment, used a light meter to measure lighting, and took photos that will make a panorama of the interior of the JPM.  Astrobee is set to arrive on the ISS in Spring 2018, and consists of three self-contained, free flying robots and a docking station for use inside the ISS. The robots are designed to help scientists and engineers develop and test technologies for use in microgravity to assist astronauts with routine chores, and give ground controllers additional eyes and ears on the space station. The autonomous robots, powered by fans and vision-based navigation, perform crew monitoring, sampling, logistics management, and accommodate up to three investigations.

Multi-Omics Sample Collections: This morning, a 52S crewmember collected saliva samples and completed a questionnaire for the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) Multi-Omics experiment. The samples will be placed into the Minus Eighty Degree Celsius Laboratory Freezer for ISS (MELFI). The Multi-omics analysis of human microbial-metabolic cross-talk in the space ecosystem (Multi-Omics) investigation evaluates the impacts of space environment and prebiotics on astronauts’ immune function, by combining the data obtained from the measurements of changes in the gut microbiological composition, metabolites profiles, and the immune system.

Airway Monitoring Overview and Setup: The crew reviewed reference material and gathered hardware to support tomorrow’s Airway Monitoring session. With dust particles present in the International Space Station atmosphere, Airway Monitoring studies the occurrence and indicators of airway inflammation in crewmembers, using ultra-sensitive gas analyzers to analyze exhaled air. This helps to highlight any health impacts and to maintain crewmember well-being on future human spaceflight missions, especially longer-duration missions to the Moon and Mars for example, where crewmembers will have to be more self-sufficient in highlighting and avoiding such conditions. 

Biological Experiment Laboratory (BioLab) Exchange Door Inspection: The crew checked the commanding capability of the BioLab experiment container exchange door. The BioLab is a multiuser research facility located in the European Columbus laboratory. The facility is used to perform space biology experiments on microorganisms, cells, tissue cultures, small plants, and small invertebrates. BioLab allows scientists to gain a better understanding of the effects of microgravity and space radiation on biological organisms.

Orbital-ATK 8 (OA-8) On-board Training (OBT): In preparation for OA-8 berth, currently planned for November 13, the USOS crew conducted Robotic On-Board Trainer (ROBoT) OBT with support from ground teams. The crew reviewed capture procedure, mission profile overview, rendezvous crew procedures and interfaces for monitoring/commanding Cygnus. They also practiced a 30 meter approach and 2 Capture Point hold runs.
Jacques :-)

Offline centaurinasa

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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #125 on: 11/07/2017 10:27 pm »
SSRMS on Node-2 "Harmony" nadir PDGF "Power Data Grapple Fixture".
« Last Edit: 11/07/2017 10:34 pm by centaurinasa »
To boldly go where no human has gone before !

Offline Targeteer

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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #126 on: 11/07/2017 10:56 pm »
NASA Astronaut Randy "Komrade" Bresnik Page Liked · 1 hr ·
 
"Busy day at work when you have to take the laptop to the outhouse! Just kidding, we need to follow procedures when fixing the space toilet. — with International Space Station. "

A little bathroom humor from space...
Best quote heard during an inspection, "I was unaware that I was the only one who was aware."

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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #127 on: 11/08/2017 02:51 pm »

ISS Daily Summary Report – 11/07/2017
 

Personal Radiation Shielding for Interplanetary Missions (PERSEO):  Today the crew performed an initial checkout of a radiation shielding garment for the Italian Space Agency (ASI) PERSEO Project. They filled the garment with water, donned the garment, and later doffed the garment before draining the water.  PERSEO evaluates the efficacy of a personal radiation protection system, easily wearable by the astronaut and aimed at risk reduction for exposure to cosmic radiation, particularly in case of solar particle events. The garment has containers that are positioned to shield the more radiosensitive organs. Water is used because of its shielding properties and its ready availability on the ISS. The radiation protection strategy will be tested with dedicated measurements of shielding efficacy.

Airway Monitoring:  The crew set up the Airway Monitoring system in the US Laboratory module today and powered on the Enhancement Unit and the Portable Pulmonary Function System (PFS) for a software upgrade from the ground.  With dust particles present in the ISS atmosphere, Airway Monitoring studies the occurrence and indicators of airway inflammation in crewmembers, using ultra-sensitive gas analyzers to analyze exhaled air. This will help to identify health impacts and support maintenance of crewmember well-being on future human spaceflight missions, such as to the Moon and Mars, where crewmembers will have to be more self-sufficient in identifying and avoiding such conditions. 

Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS)-02:  On Sunday the AMS-02 laptop hard drive failed.  Today the crew changed out the drive and installed software on the new hard drive. AMS-02 has collected and analyzed billions of cosmic ray events, and identified millions of these as electrons or positrons (anti-matter). The number of high energy positons increases steadily rather than decaying, which is different than projections from theoretical models and indicates a yet to be identified source of positrons. Researchers have also observed a plateau in the positron growth curve and need additional data to determine why. Results suggest that high-energy positrons and cosmic ray electrons may come from different and mysterious sources. Solving the origin of cosmic rays and antimatter increases understanding of our galaxy.

Story Time From Space: A crewmember participated in the Story Time from Space project by reading I Wonder Why Stars Twinkle today while being videotaped.  The recording will be downlinked and used for educational purposes. Story Time From Space combines science literacy outreach with simple demonstrations recorded aboard the ISS. Crew members read science, technology, engineering and mathematics-related children’s books on orbit, and complete simple science concept experiments. Video and data collected during the demonstrations are downlinked to the ground and posted in a video library with accompanying educational materials.

Remote Power Controller Module (RPCM) N21B4A-B R&R:  This morning, the crew replaced RPCM N21B4A_B via a Hot Demate/Mate (HDMM).  No powerdowns were required during this operation.  A new RPCM was installed and successfully established communication with the MDM.  Downstream loads have been successfully powered on.  This R&R has recovered the Node2 ATU1.

EVA Mobility Unit (EMU) Maintenance:  Today the crew performed EMU maintenance, replacing the water line vent tube assembly on EMU 3003 and refilling water tanks.

Node 2 Overhead InterModule Ventilation (IMV) Reconfiguration:  The crew reconfigured the N2 Overhead IMV by replacing ductwork and installing a new high speed fan.  This will provide airflow to Pressurized Mating Adapter 3 (PMA-3).
Jacques :-)

Offline centaurinasa

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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #128 on: 11/08/2017 04:10 pm »
Right now, Capture Training  in preparation for Cygnus OA-8...
« Last Edit: 11/08/2017 06:25 pm by centaurinasa »
To boldly go where no human has gone before !

Offline centaurinasa

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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #129 on: 11/08/2017 06:53 pm »
End of OBT...
To boldly go where no human has gone before !

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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #130 on: 11/09/2017 04:16 pm »

ISS Daily Summary Report – 11/08/2017
 

Airway Monitoring:  Using the Portable Pulmonary Function System (PFS), the crew performed calibrations and conducted high and low nitric oxide (NO) measurements in the US Laboratory. The Airway Monitoring investigation aims to determine the pulmonary nitric oxide turnover in weightlessness and in combined weightless, hypobaric and hypoxic environments, as well as the lung diffusion capacity for nitric oxide. With dust particles present in the ISS atmosphere, this investigation studies the occurrence and indicators of airway inflammation in crewmembers, using ultra-sensitive gas analyzers to analyze exhaled air. This will help to identify health impacts and support maintenance of crewmember well-being on future human spaceflight missions, such as to the Moon and Mars, where crewmembers will have to be more self-sufficient in identifying and avoiding such conditions. 

Lighting Effects:  A 52S crewmember provided a sleep log entry to track his daily sleep patterns and wakefulness. The Lighting Effects investigation studies the impact of the change from fluorescent light bulbs to solid-state light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with adjustable intensity and color and aims to determine if the new lights can improve crew circadian rhythms, sleep, and cognitive performance.

Fine Motor Skills (FMS): Today a 51S crewmember conducted a Flight Day 104 FMS session that was executed on a touchscreen tablet, where the subject performs a series of interactive tasks. The investigation studies how fine motor skills are affected by long-term microgravity exposure, different phases of microgravity adaptation, and sensorimotor recovery after returning to Earth gravity. The goal of FMS is to answer how fine motor performance in microgravity varies over the duration of a six-month and year-long space mission, how fine motor performance on orbit compare with that of a closely matched participant on Earth, and how performance trend/vary before and after gravitational transitions, including the periods of early flight adaptation, and very early/near immediate post-flight periods.

Earth Imagery from ISS Target Operations: The crew captured video footage of the Atlantic Ocean that continues to Northwest Africa, and footage of a thunderstorm in Italy that continues to East Europe. The crew also captured imagery of the Pacific Ocean before Singapore that continues over the coast between mainland China, Korea and Japan. The Earth Imagery from ISS investigation creates a series of videos, showcasing Earth from space. These videos will be taken with cameras on the International Space Station in 6K hi-resolution, then integrated into videos for screensavers for public enjoyment, exploration, and engagement.

Meteor Hard Drive Swap-out: The crew removed and replaced the hard drive in the Meteor laptop located in the Window Observational Research Facility (WORF).  The Meteor payload is a visible spectroscopy instrument with the primary purpose of observing meteors in Earth orbit. Meteor uses image analysis to provide information on the physical and chemical properties of the meteoroid dust, such as size, density, and chemical composition. Since the parent comets or asteroids for most of the meteor showers are identified, the study of the meteoroid dust on orbit provides information about the parent comets and asteroids.   

Joint Airlock Remote Power Control Module (RPCM) Remove and Replace (R&R):  Today the crew rotated the A/L1F1 rack to access and replace the AL1A4A_B RPCM.  The post-R&R checkout was successful.  This RPCM powers Airlock redundant shell heaters.  After the R&R, they inspected the Lower Left Launch Restraint on the A/L1F1 Rack. This Lower Left Launch Restraint was previously reported as stuck in the fully disengaged position.  The crew was unable to engage the restraint.  The rack is in an acceptable configuration with only 3 of 4 restraints, however.

Cygnus Offset Grapple On-Board Training (OBT):  In preparation for Cygnus arrival, the crew practiced vehicle captures with the Space Station Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS), which was positioned at the Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM) Flight Releasable Grapple Fixture (FRGF) High Hover position earlier this week in preparation for the training. Following the training, the crew participated in a conference with ground teams to discuss the training session and address any questions.

Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM) Overhead 1 (O1) Rack Front Cleanup:  The crew prepared the PMMO1 Rack Front to accept cargo during the upcoming Orbital ATK 8 (OA-8) mission by consolidating trash items and staging these items for disposal. During OA-8 cargo operations, these disposal items will be swapped with cargo that arrived on OA-8.

Node 2 Zenith International Docking Adapter (IDA) Control Panel Installation:  The crew installed the IDA Control Panel bracket, IDA Control Panel, and cover on a Closeout Panel in Node 2. This Control Panel will be used to control the IDA at Node 2 Zenith during future Commercial Crew vehicles.  After installation, the control panel was checked out successfully.
Jacques :-)

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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #131 on: 11/09/2017 05:15 pm »
The crew mentioned to Houston that they observed, and were able to photograph, a sizable re-entry last night.  Paolo has apparently witnessed similar events previously and the crew noted the re-entry was on several frames of imagery and that the ground was illuminated prior to presumed impact.  Houston noted that they were "perusing" the internet for possible correlating events after noting the crew note on the incident this morning.

Any further news?  When/where?  Any independent sightings from land, sea, or air?
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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #132 on: 11/13/2017 06:42 pm »
ISS Daily Summary Report – 11/09/2017
 
Lighting Effects: Upon wakeup, a 52S subject provided a sleep log entry, and then conducted a series of three Cognition tests throughout the day. The Lighting Effects experiment hopes to better quantify and qualify how lighting can effect habitability of spacecraft. The light bulbs on the ISS are being replaced with a new system designed for improved crew health and wellness. The Lighting Effects investigation studies the impact of the change from fluorescent light bulbs to solid-state light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with adjustable intensity and color and aims to determine if the new lights can improve crew circadian rhythms, sleep, and cognitive performance. Results from this investigation also have major implications for people on Earth who use electric lights.

Miniature Exercise Device (MED-2):  Today crewmembers configured the Node 3 camera and three other cameras deployed around Node 3 to capture video from multiple views of the crew performing dead lifts and rowing exercises using the Advanced Resistive Exercise Device (ARED) and the MED-2 hardware. The ISS’s exercise equipment is large and bulky, while the MED-2 aims to demonstrate small robotic actuators can provide motion and resistance for crew workout sessions, reducing the size and weight of exercise equipment for long-duration space missions. The MED-2 investigation is a system to test key technologies needed to develop space based exercise equipment that may provide appropriate countermeasures to the adverse effects of microgravity. This technology is critical for the initial design and development of second and third generation Counter Measure Systems (CMS) hardware that is an order of magnitude lighter and smaller than existing ISS class of CMS hardware and that has significantly greater reliability.

Fluids Integrated Rack (FIR) Light Microscopy Module (LMM) Camera Power and Data Exchange: To troubleshoot the LMM wide-field camera capability, the crew exchanged the power connection from the LMM wide-field camera to the LMM confocal camera; and then exchanged the data connection from the LMM confocal camera to the LMM wide-field camera. The Light Microscopy Module (LMM) is a modified commercial, highly flexible, state-of-the-art light imaging microscope facility that provides researchers with powerful diagnostic hardware and software onboard the International Space Station (ISS).

Earth Imagery from ISS Target Operations: The crew captured video footage of a night pass of the Gulf of Thailand and New York City.  The Earth Imagery from ISS investigation creates a series of videos showcasing Earth from space. These videos were taken with cameras on the International Space Station in 6K hi-resolution, then will be integrated into videos for public enjoyment, exploration, and engagement.

Lab Internal Thermal Control System (ITCS) Accumulator Refill: The crew set up the Fluid System Servicer (FSS) Fluids Control Pump Assembly (FCPA) and refilled the LAB Low Temperature Loop (LTL) Pump Package Assembly (PPA) accumulator. After FSS operations were complete, they drained and purged the FSS FCPA and jumpers.

Internal Wireless Instrumentation System (IWIS) Tri-Axial Accelerometer (TAA) Replace:  Data collected during ISS reboosts on GMT 117 and GMT 137 indicated that the Functional Cargo Block (FGB) IWIS TAA had detached or had an IWIS TAA issue. Today the crew accessed the hardware and inspected it.  Based on their findings, it was determined that the TAA had hardware issues, and the crew replaced the IWIS TAA with a spare attached to a new IWIS FGB TAA plate.

Lab Carbon Dioxide Removal Assembly (CDRA) Leak Check: Telemetry during the Lab CDRA blower speed test indicates that an air leak is present in the CDRA.  Today the crew inspected the Lab CDRA for a leak using the Ultrasonic Leak Detector (ULD).  A sizable leak was found on Air Selector Valve (ASV) 103. The crew was able to repair the leak by demating and remating the Hydraflow connector. A few other potential small leaks were identified. No other interfaces were demated. Crew tightened fasteners and connectors as needed and closed out the rack. CDRA will run overnight to fully characterize performance improvements.
Jacques :-)

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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #133 on: 11/13/2017 06:42 pm »

ISS Daily Summary Report – 11/10/2017
 

Human Research Program (HRP) Collections (Biochemical Profile, Repository): A 51S crewmember completed Flight Day (FD) 120 blood and urine sample collections to support the Biochemical Profile and Repository experiments. The samples were placed in the Minus Eighty Degree Celsius Laboratory Freezer for ISS (MELFI).
•The Biochemical Profile experiment tests blood and urine samples are obtained from astronauts before, during, and after spaceflight. Specific proteins and chemicals in the samples are used as biomarkers, or indicators of health. Post-flight analysis yields a database of samples and test results, which scientists can use to study the effects of spaceflight on the body.
•Repository is a storage bank used to maintain biological specimens over extended periods of time and under well-controlled conditions. This repository supports scientific discovery that contributes to our fundamental knowledge in the area of human physiological changes and adaptation to a microgravity environment and provides unique opportunities to study longitudinal changes in human physiology spanning many missions.

Lighting Effects:  A 52S crewmember provided a sleep log entry to track his daily sleep patterns and wakefulness. The Lighting Effects investigation studies the impact of the change from fluorescent light bulbs to solid-state light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with adjustable intensity and color and aims to determine if the new lights can improve crew circadian rhythms, sleep, and cognitive performance.

Earth Imagery from ISS Target Operations: The crew setup and configured the RED camera in the Cupola to capture video footage of the Nile Delta and South Florida to the Bahamas in the daytime. The Earth Imagery from ISS investigation creates a series of videos, showcasing Earth from space. These videos will be taken with cameras on the International Space Station in 6K hi-resolution, then integrated into videos for screensavers for public enjoyment, exploration, and engagement.

Story Time From Space: A crewmember participated in the Story Time from Space project by reading “The Wizard Who Saved the Word” in Spanish today while being videotaped.  The recording will be downlinked and used for educational purposes. Story Time from Space combines science literacy outreach with simple demonstrations recorded aboard the ISS. Crewmembers read science, technology, engineering and mathematics-related children’s books on orbit, and complete simple science concept experiments. Video and data collected during the demonstrations are downlinked to the ground and posted in a video library with accompanying educational materials.

Space Headaches:  The crew completed the weekly questionnaire for the ESA Space Headaches investigation. The Space Headaches investigation collects information that may help in the development of methods to alleviate associated symptoms and improvement in the well-being and performance of crewmembers in space. Headaches during space flight can negatively affect mental and physical capacities of crewmembers that can influence performance during a space mission.

Orbital-ATK 8 (OA-8) Arrival Preparations: In preparation for OA-8 capture and berthing on Monday, the crew deployed and performed a checkout of the Centerline Berthing Camera System (CBCS) on the Node 1 Nadir hatch. Video from the CBCS will be used to aid Flight Controllers during Visiting Vehicle mating operations.  The crew also reviewed Cygnus capture procedures, and completed a Robotics Onboard Trainer (RoBOT) session to practice Capture Point hold runs and 2-meter runs.
Jacques :-)

Offline centaurinasa

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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #134 on: 11/14/2017 11:51 am »
ISS configuration update, after Cygnus CRS OA-8 berthing to Node 1 "Unity" nadir.
« Last Edit: 11/14/2017 11:54 am by centaurinasa »
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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #135 on: 11/14/2017 08:29 pm »
Quote
Paolo Nespoli @astro_paolo

ISS Exp-53: a month to go... Grateful to get to share this
 extra-terrestrial adventure with such an amazing crew! #VITAmission
---
SMS ;-).

Offline Space Pete

Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #136 on: 11/14/2017 10:04 pm »
Who the heck has removed the UK Union Jack flag from among the other flags in the JPM (see image in previous post)? >:(

It was placed there by Tim Peake in recognition of the UK becoming an (albeit small) partner in the ISS, so does it's removal signal that the UK is not officially recognised as an ISS partner nation? Surely such a decision would have to be a joint decision by all the international partners (including ESA)?

I think that maybe someone within the ISS program just doesn't like the UK, and feels that they have the right/authority to remove the UK flag?

It may seem like a small issue, but it's not just about the flag, it's about the UK not being recognised for our contribution. We may only make a small contribution compared to other nations, but the same can be said of other countries whose flags still reside on the ISS, and any contribution, no matter how small, should be recognised.

I am not happy about this and I think that the UK's flag should be replaced immediately, and I am considering contacting ESA and NASA about this issue.

----------
Edit - attached image:

Top image -  taken circa Dec 2016, Union Jack is present, 15 flags total
Bottom image - taken circa Nov 2017, Union Jack is removed, 14 flags total
« Last Edit: 11/14/2017 10:44 pm by Space Pete »
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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #137 on: 11/15/2017 06:01 am »

ISS Daily Summary Report – 11/13/2017
 

Orbital-ATK 8 (OA-8) Launch:  Following a 24 hour delay, OA-8 launched successfully from Wallops Island, Virginia atop an Antares rocket on Sunday at 6:19 AM CST.  Capture and berthing to Node 1 Nadir is planned for Tuesday, November 14th starting at 3:50 AM CST. The spacecraft will deliver ~3300 kgs of payloads and supplies to the ISS.

Probiotics Operations: Over the weekend, a crewmember initiated the second of four sampling phases of the JAXA Probiotic investigation by collecting fecal samples and immediately stowing the samples into the Minus Eighty Degree Celsius Laboratory Freezer for ISS (MELFI). This sampling phases include fecal and saliva sample collections, a questionnaire, and a Probiotic capsule intake. The saliva sample collection, questionnaire, and capsule intake for this phase will be conducted on GMT day 319. Some species of harmful bacteria such as Salmonella grow stronger and more virulent in the microgravity environment of space. At the same time, the human immune system is weaker in space, leading to increased health risks. The objective of the Probiotics investigation is to study the impact of continuous consumption of probiotics on immune function and intestinal microbiota in astronauts under closed microgravity environment This investigation studies the effects of beneficial bacteria (Probiotics) to improve crew members’ intestinal microbiota as well as their immune function on long-duration space missions.

Lighting Effects:  Over the weekend, the 52S subject collected urine samples and provided sleep log entries to track his daily sleep patterns and wakefulness. Today’s sleep log entry concludes the two-week sleep study session that began on GMT 304. The Lighting Effects investigation studies the impact of the change from fluorescent light bulbs to solid-state light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with adjustable intensity and color and aims to determine if the new lights can improve crew circadian rhythms, sleep, and cognitive performance.

Earth Imagery from ISS Target Operations: On Saturday, the crew captured video footage of Southern California at night, the Gulf of Thailand, and the southern tip of India. Today the crew will capture footage of California and the Baja Peninsula. The Earth Imagery from ISS investigation creates a series of videos, showcasing Earth from space. These videos will be taken with cameras on the International Space Station in 6K hi-resolution, then integrated into videos for screensavers for public enjoyment, exploration, and engagement.

Human Research Program (HRP) Collections (Biochemical Profile, Repository): A 51S crewmember completed Flight Day (FD) 120 blood and urine sample collections to support the Biochemical Profile and Repository experiments. The samples were placed in MELFI.
•The Biochemical Profile experiment tests blood and urine samples obtained from astronauts before, during, and after spaceflight. Specific proteins and chemicals in the samples used as biomarkers, or indicators of health. Post-flight analysis yields a database of samples and test results, which scientists can use to study the effects of spaceflight on the body.
•Repository is a storage bank used to maintain biological specimens over extended periods of time and under well-controlled conditions. This repository supports scientific discovery that contributes to our fundamental knowledge in the area of human physiological changes and adaptation to a microgravity environment and provides unique opportunities to study longitudinal changes in human physiology spanning many missions.

VEG-03 Science Harvest: The crew cut several of the larger leaves from each plant for consumption. The remainder of the plants were left to grow and sprout new leaves.  The Veg-03 investigation uses the Veggie plant growth facility to cultivate a type of cabbage, lettuce and mizuna, which are harvested on-orbit with samples returned to Earth for testing. Organisms grow differently in space, from single-celled bacteria to plants and humans. Future long-duration space missions will require crew members to grow their own food, so understanding how plants respond to microgravity is an important step toward that goal.

Augmented Reality Application for Maintenance, Inventory and Stowage (ARAMIS) Maintenance Session: The crew setup the camcorder, connected to an iPad, and ran maintenance sequences. The ARAMIS investigation demonstrates use of augmented reality technology to improve efficiency of operations aboard the space station. Crew time is a precious resource in space and this frees up more time for scientific research. The demonstration uses a single portable device to run preventive maintenance and stowage management or hardware searches.

Solid State Lighting Assembly (SSLA) Installation:  Today, the crew installed SSLAs into the Lab and Node 3. The SSLAs were designed to replace General Luminaire Assemblies (GLAs) to improve visual acuity and to provide a crew health countermeasure for circadian rhythms, sleep, alertness and performance. To accomplish these goals, SSLAs are designed to operate in 3 modes with 3 distinct spectrum. The different spectrum provide control of the blue portion of the light which impacts melatonin production in humans which impacts sleep.

Sidekick Familiarization:  Today the crew performed a self familiarization session with the Sidekick (aka HoloLens) device in preparation for future use.  A procedure and familiarization video, along with the in-device training provided an overview of the Sidekick device and how to use gestures to interact with the Sidekick software.
Jacques :-)

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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #138 on: 11/16/2017 09:06 am »

ISS Daily Summary Report – 11/14/2017
 

Orbital 8 (OA-8) Capture/Berthing:  Monday night, Robotics Ground Controllers maneuvered the Space Station Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS) to inspect the Node 1 Nadir Active Common Berthing Mechanism (CBM). They then maneuvered the SSRMS to the Cygnus high hover position in preparation for Cygnus capture.

Early this morning, the crew monitored the Cygnus approach from the Cupola Robotic Workstation and at approximately 10:05 GMT they captured Cygnus. Robotics Ground Controllers then maneuvered Cygnus into position to support an inspection of its Passive CBM.  Following completion of the inspection, they maneuvered and installed it to the Node 1 Nadir Active CBM. The crew ingressed the vehicle at 17:23 GMT and will begin transferring cargo tomorrow.

Human Research Program (HRP) Collections (Biochemical Profile, Repository): A 51S crewmember completed Flight Day (FD) 120 urine sample collections to support the Biochemical Profile and Repository experiments. The samples were placed in the Minus Eighty Degree Celsius Laboratory Freezer for ISS (MELFI).
•The Biochemical Profile experiment tests blood and urine samples obtained from astronauts before, during, and after spaceflight. Specific proteins and chemicals in the samples are used as biomarkers, or indicators of health. Post-flight analysis yields a database of samples and test results, which scientists can use to study the effects of spaceflight on the body.
•Repository is a storage bank used to maintain biological specimens over extended periods of time and under well-controlled conditions. This repository supports scientific discovery that contributes to our fundamental knowledge in the area of human physiological changes and adaptation to a microgravity environment and provides unique opportunities to study longitudinal changes in human physiology spanning many missions.

Simulation of Geophysical Fluid Flow under Microgravity – 2 (Geoflow-2) Experiment Container De-installation: The GeoFlow-2 experiment container was removed by the crew from the Fluid Science Laboratory (FSL) rack and stowed for disposal. The Geoflow-2 experiment studies heat and fluid flow currents within the Earth’s mantle. Geoflow-2 aims to improve computational methods that scientists and engineers use to understand and predict the processes in the Earth’s mantle that lead to volcanic eruptions, plate tectonics and earthquakes.

Augmented Reality Application for Maintenance, Inventory and Stowage (ARAMIS) Stowage Session: The crew set up a camcorder, connected to an iPad, and ran stowage sequences in the Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM). The ARAMIS investigation demonstrates use of augmented reality technology to improve efficiency of operations aboard the space station. Crew time is a precious resource in space and this frees up more time for scientific research. The demonstration uses a single portable device to run preventive maintenance and stowage management or hardware searches.

Earth Imagery from ISS Target Operations: Using the Red camera, the crew captured video footage of Australia at sunset. The Earth Imagery from ISS investigation creates a series of videos, showcasing Earth from space. These videos will be taken with cameras on the International Space Station in 6K hi-resolution, then integrated into videos for screensavers for public enjoyment, exploration, and engagement.

Spare Latching End Effector (LEE)/Utility Transfer Assembly (UTA) Flight Releasable Attachment Mechanism (FRAM) Swap:  Today, Robotics Ground Controllers maneuvered the Space Station Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS) and picked up the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator (SPDM) in preparation for tomorrow’s LEE/FRAM swap activities.  Tomorrow, they will remove the UTA from External Stowage Platform (ESP)-2 and translate the Mobile Transporter (MT) from Work Site (WS)-4 to WS-7. They then remove the LEE and install the UTA on ELC-1. The MT will then be translated back to WS-7 from WS-4 and the LEE will be installed on ESP-2. These activities are in preparation for EVAs planned next January.

Node 1 High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filter Cleaning: The crew performed a deep cleaning of the Node 1 HEPA plenum. Recent imagery showed that the HEPA plenum area in Node 1 is collecting excessive dust and debris on the surface of the plenum as well as crevices around the filters.
Jacques :-)

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Re: Expedition 53 Thread
« Reply #139 on: 11/17/2017 06:02 am »
November 16, 2017
MEDIA ADVISORY M17-135

Tennessee Students to Speak with NASA Astronauts on International Space Station
 

Students at Southside Elementary School in Lebanon, Tennessee, will have the opportunity to speak with NASA astronauts living, working and doing research aboard the International Space Station at 10:05 a.m. EST Monday, Nov. 20. The 20-minute, Earth-to-space call will air live on NASA Television and the agency’s website.
Students will have the opportunity to ask Randy Bresnik and Mark Vande Hei questions about life aboard the space station, NASA’s deep space exploration plans, and scientific research in space. Southside Elementary hosted a school-wide competition for the submission of questions to the astronauts.

This is Bresnik’s second mission to the station, and he serves as the station’s Expedition 53 commander. Bresnik launched to the orbiting laboratory on July 28 and is scheduled to return to Earth in December. Vande Hei arrived at the space station on Sept. 12 and will return to Earth in February 2018. This is his first space mission.
The students at Southside prepared for the downlink by participating in a daily trivia contest. Students also watched videos educating them on the different aspects of living in space such as how astronauts brush their teeth, wash their hair and use the bathroom. In celebration of the downlink, the halls of the school are covered with space themed decorations on the doorways.

“Students have researched and written biographies of the three American astronauts currently on station,” said Southside teacher Leesa Hubbard, who served as the facilitator for the NASA Educational Workshops at the agency’s Marshall Space Flight Center from 1999-2002. “It is our hope that this experience will bring the science and exploration of space a lot closer to home.”

Media interested in attending the event should contact Jennifer Johnson at [email protected] or 615-478-6996. Southside Elementary School is at 1224 Murfreesboro Road in Lebanon.

Linking students directly to astronauts aboard the space station provides unique, authentic experiences designed to enhance student learning, performance and interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). This in-flight education downlink is an integral component of NASA’s Year of Education on Station, which provides extensive space station-related resources and opportunities to students and educators.
Follow the astronauts on social media:

https://www.twitter.com/NASA_astronauts/

See videos and lesson plans highlighting research on the International Space Station at:

 https://www.nasa.gov/stemonstation/
Jacques :-)

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