Dr. Lisa Carnell, division director for NASA’s Biological and Physical Sciences, breaks down how research in microgravity, the Moon, and Mars can transform what we know about biology and physics. HWHAP 414.
The critical role of fundamental research in space
Fundamental research acts as the building block for all applied sciences and future technologies.
Microgravity provides a unique environment to study phenomena like fluid dynamics, combustion, and quantum mechanics that are impossible to replicate on Earth.
Advancing human health through space-based innovation
NASA is using 'organ-on-a-chip' technology to study how individual astronauts respond to deep space radiation.
Research into bone loss and immune system changes in space helps develop personalized medical countermeasures for future missions to the Moon and Mars.
The importance of a 'space labs' approach
NASA is shifting toward a model where science is conducted on any available platform, including the Moon, deep space, and commercial LEO destinations.
Integrating crew members into real-time experimental iteration significantly accelerates the pace of scientific discovery.
Building a sustainable orbital economy
NASA is actively fostering a commercial low-Earth orbit economy by partnering with private entities to utilize space stations for research.
This commercialization ensures that space remains accessible for diverse research needs while maintaining American leadership in space exploration.
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