Last update of this page: June 16, 2026, 10:55 am ET
Information still to be determined (if any) is in RED TEXT below.
This page provides descriptions of all oral presentations by student teams at the 2026 SSEP National Conference.
All teams needed to submit a description of their presentation via email to John Hamel by 5:00 pm ET, Monday, June 1, 2026, using the Oral Presentation Template that is downloadable below. Submission earlier than the deadline would be greatly appreciated. Note that your presentation Abstract has a strict 80 word limit.
Download: 2026 Oral Presentation Template
This page will provide descriptions of all 20 presentations by student teams at the 2026 SSEP National Conference.
Oral Presentations for the 2026 SSEP National Conference
Mission 20
Oral 1: Melbourne, Florida
School and/or District: Florida Institute of Technology
Grade levels of Team: 14-Graduate
Title: Viability of Hydrogel Radiation Shielding Under the Influence of Microgravity
Type of Experiment: Flight Experiment, Mission 20 to ISS
Principal Investigator: Leighton Karpinia
Investigators: Leyla Avant, Sampada Koirala, Emily Matheson, Caroline Moore
Teacher Facilitator: Dr. Andrew Palmer
Abstract: This study investigates the effects of microgravity onchydrogels used for radiationcshielding. Without protection from the earth’s atmosphere, astronauts and vehicles are
susceptible to damage from ionizing radiation. Hydrogels are known to protect healthy tissuescduring radiation therapy and are promising for space applications. However, microgravity maycinfluence particle aggregation, potentially diminishing hydrogels’ ability to shield from radiation by altering their structure. Understanding these effects will advance the use of hydrogels for protection during spaceflight missions.
Mission 21
Oral 2: Phoenix, Arizona
School and/or District: Paradise Valley High School, Paradise Valley Unified School District
Grade levels of Team: 9-10
Title: The Effect of Microgravity on the Growth and Structure of Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs)
Type of Experiment: Flight Experiment, Mission 21 to ISS
Co-Principal Investigators: Vedika Kashyap, Victor Gomez
Investigators: Kyle Vo, Nikhil Karandikar, Sukrant Vaddi
Teacher Facilitator: Michelle Landreville, Bhawna Verma
Abstract: This experiment evaluates if microgravity improves the crystallinity and structural order of a water-grown covalent organic framework (COF-LZU1). Synthesized from an aldehyde and amine at room temperature, COFs typically suffer from irregular porosity. By comparing space-grown samples with Earth controls, the study tests if reduced convection and diffusion-limited growth decrease structural defects. Results will inform how microgravity affects reticular synthesis and whether it can enable higher-quality COFs for separations, filtration technology, environmental remediation, medical applications, and related applications.
Oral 3: Pasadena, California
School and/or District: Pasadena City Community College
Grade levels of Team: 13-15
Title: The Effect of Microgravity on the Crystallogenesis of Hen Egg White Lysozyme
Type of Experiment: Flight Experiment, Mission 21 to ISS
Co-Principal Investigators: Jared Smolinski, Andrew Fox, Raia Robotham, Bryan David, Abel Garcia Xelhua, Syeda Akther
Advisors: Dr. Jared Ashcroft, Dr. Joel M. Harp, Dr. Zoltan K. Nagy, Dr. Irimpan I. Mathews
Teacher Facilitators: Dr. Elana Brewer, Dr. Jeff Salzmann
Abstract: To study the affects of microgravity on the crystallization of the model protein Hen Egg White Lysozyme. The primary objective of this experiment is to qualitatively evaluate whether crystals grown in the diffusion-dominated microgravity environment of the ISS show improved size, morphological perfection, and internal order (mosaicity) compared to those grown in a 1 g ground control. Such results would provide high-fidelity validation for crystallographic investigations and further support the scientific value of microgravity to advance protein crystallization.
Oral 4: Melbourne, Florida
School and/or District: Florida Institute of Technology
Grade levels of Team: TBD
Title: TBD
Type of Experiment: Flight Experiment, Mission 21 to ISS
Co-Principal Investigators: TBD
Teacher Facilitator: TBD
Abstract: TBD
Oral 5: Orlando, Florida
School and/or District: University of Central Florida
Grade levels of Team: Undergraduate
Title: Gelatin in Microgravity: Bridging Molecular Food Science and Hospitality
Type of Experiment: Finalist Proposal, Mission 21 to ISS
Principal Investigator: Jaida Smith
Investigator: Olivia Bergler
Teacher Facilitators: Chef Cesar Rivera Cruzado, Dr. Amy M. Gregory
Abstract: The absence of gravity in space enables investigation of hydrocolloid gelation and food texture formation. This study examines how microgravity influences gelatin gelation rate, network structure, and syneresis, removing convection, sedimentation, and gravity-driven heat transfer. Orbital samples are compared with terrestrial controls to isolate gravity’s role in molecular assembly, clarity, and bubble suspension. Findings inform design of texture-diverse space food systems, including nutrient-dense gels, edible packaging, and comfort-oriented formulations for long-duration missions and tourism, while advancing food technology on Earth.
Oral 6: Orlando, Florida
School and/or District: University of Central Florida
Grade levels of Team: Undergraduate
Title: Conventional Laundry Detergent for the Removal of Lunar Regolith from Astronaut Clothing
Type of Experiment: Finalist Proposal, Mission 21 to ISS
Principal Investigator: Andrei Nesterenko
Investigator: Matthew McMenamin
Collaborators: Sammi Jones, Brandon Leon, Sergio Solera Valverde
Teacher Facilitators: Dr. Phil Metzger, Dr. Amy M. Gregory
Abstract: Long-duration space missions require effective methods for maintaining crew health and safety during daily activities such as clothing care. This investigation examines the use of mechanical force, standard detergent, and minimal water to remove hazardous lunar regolith from textile models in microgravity, where gravity-driven friction is absent. Regolith poses serious respiratory risks if not properly removed. Results will inform cleaning strategies for lunar environments, improving crew safety, operational efficiency, and overall quality of life during extended space missions.
Oral 7: Orlando, Florida
School and/or District: University of Central Florida
Grade levels of Team: Undergraduate
Title: A Kidney Stone in Microgravity — Examining Physical and Chemical Properties of Calcium Crystals Formed in Microgravity
Type of Experiment: Flight Experiment, Mission 21 to ISS
Principal Investigator: Andrei Nesterenko
Investigators: Sammi Jones, Reese Laushot
Teacher Facilitators: Dr. Phil Metzger, Dr. Amy M. Gregory
Abstract: This investigation examines how microgravity influences calcium-based crystal formation, relevant to kidney stone development in astronauts. By removing gravity-driven convection and sedimentation, microgravity may alter crystal size, shape, structure, and composition. Crystals formed in orbit will be compared with Earth-based controls to isolate gravitational effects. Analyzing these differences will improve understanding of stone formation risks in space, where calcium metabolism is altered. Findings will support mitigation strategies for long-duration missions and advance knowledge of crystallization processes in reduced-gravity environments.
Oral 8: St. Petersburg, Florida
School and/or District: St. Petersburg College
Grade levels of Team: Undergraduate
Title: Effects Of Microgravity On Tau-441 Aggregation And Neurofibrillary Tangle Formation: Literature-based Ground Predictions And Hypothesized OutcomesIn Microgravity
Type of Experiment: Finalist Proposal, Mission 21 to ISS
Co-Principal Investigators: Noah A. Von Dauber, Karolina Liskiewicz
Teacher Facilitator: Dr. Joanna D. Maza, DVM
Abstract: This presentation explores the hypothesized effects of microgravity on Tau-441 protein aggregation and neurofibrillary tangle formation—processes central to neurodegenerative tauopathies like Alzheimer’s disease. As a Mission 21 finalist experiment, our analysis relies on literature-supported 1G ground truth and documented spaceflight protein dynamics. We predict outcomes driven by diffusion-limited aggregation and share actionable payload engineering lessons learned from the SSEP National Review Board to improve future spaceflight biochemistry rigor.
Oral 9: St. Petersburg, Florida
School and/or District: St. Petersburg College
Grade level of Team: 15
Title: Assessing the Viability of Daphnia magna Resting Eggs Post Space Travel and Passive Microgravity Exposure for Implications in Bioregenerative Life Support Systems for Future Space Missions
Type of Experiment: Finalist Proposal, Mission 21 to ISS
Co-Principal Investigators: Reese Moore, Summer Gallagher
Teacher Facilitator: Paul G. Cutlip
Abstract: Daphnia magna are planktonic crustaceans with adaptations that make them strong candidates for Bioregenerative Life Support Systems (BLSS). Their resting eggs can withstand extreme conditions and remain viable for years. The SSEP Mission 21 mini lab does not provide the light duration necessary for hatching. This study investigates whether the resting eggs are viable after space travel. If the eggs hatch after space travel, their viability could support BLSS functions such as wastewater management and toxicity detection.
Oral 10: St. Petersburg, Florida
School and/or District: St. Petersburg College
Grade levels of Team: 13-14
Title: The Effect of Microgravity on the Formation and Properties of Calcium Alginate Hydrogels
Type of Experiment: Flight Experiment, Mission 21 to ISS
Co-Principal Investigators: Eilya Yazdani, Nicholas Tsongranis, Vinicio Castillo
Advisors: Dr. Nadeesha Senevirathne, Prof. Kyle Knoke, Dr. Robert Hill
Teacher Facilitator: Dr. Grace Moore
Abstract: This experiment will investigate how forming Calcium Alginate hydrogels under microgravity affects their material properties to provide insight into their potential limitations when used in mission-critical applications in space such as CO₂ removal in life support systems, radiation shielding, 3D printing, and space-based agricultural systems. This will be achieved by comparing hydrogel samples made in microgravity against samples formed under Earth’s gravity. These properties include density, electrical conductivity, dynamic viscoelastic properties, transparency, swelling ratio, water retention, and degradation rate.
Oral 11: Tampa, Florida
School and/or District: University of South Florida
Grade level of Team: 16
Title: Physical Decay of Al in Aqueous NaoH Solution within Space Systems
Type of Experiment: Semi-Finalist Proposal, Mission 21 to ISS
Principal Investigator: Taylor Carroll
Investigator: Eesha Bhattacharjee
Collaborators: Oscar Villalobos, Hieu Vo, Alan Guyster
Teacher Facilitator: Dr. Norma Alcantar
Abstract: This project investigates the longevity of the power supply within a galvanic cell system when encapsulating the oxidizer in the redox reaction. The electrodes being used are aluminum and silver and are suspended in a sodium hydroxide solution. Encapsulated hydrogen peroxide aids in extending the power output of the reaction, as well as slowing down the effects of anodic decay present during the electrochemical reaction. This project utilizes components that are cost effective and easy to assemble.
Oral 12: Tampa, Florida
School and/or District: University of South Florida
Grade level of Team: 15
Title: Supplementary Radiation Shielding: Radiotrophic Fungi as Biological Shielding
Type of Experiment: Semi-Finalist Proposal, Mission 21 to ISS
Co-Principal Investigators: Abril Chavez, Andrew Davis
Teacher Facilitators: Dr. Jorseph Dituri, Dr. Christina Richards, Jessica Bains
Abstract: Radiotrophic fungi have been proposed as a lightweight biological material for radiation shielding in microgravity. In this study, we aim to evaluate the stress response of Cladosporium sphaerospermum when oxidative stressors are present. This will be done using Thymol in differing concentrations, which is a substitute for the radiant stress in low Earth orbit. Thymol’s safety enables its use as a substitute without the risk and potential harmful effects.
Oral 13: Tampa, Florida
School and/or District: University of South Florida
Grade levels of Team: 14-16
Title: Dark Adsorption in Space: Testing Cactus-Modified TiO2 Films Beyond Earth
Type of Experiment: Finalist Proposal, Mission 21 to ISS
Co-Principal Investigators: Ivan Alexis Martinez Diez-Muro, Riva Nathani
Investigator: James Ma
Collaborators: Khuloud Alrashdi, Ph.D., Blake Barrett, M.S.P.H.
Teacher Facilitator: Norma A. Alcantar, Ph.D.
Abstract: Photocatalytic wastewater treatment relies on contaminant adsorption before light-driven degradation. Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) films containing cactus gelling extract (GE) have shown methylene blue (MB) removal in darkness, suggesting enhanced adsorption. This study examines whether TiO₂-GE films retain this advantage in microgravity, where mass transport occurs by diffusion. Astronauts will expose MB solutions to the films in darkness using Rhodium Mixing Tubes, with 1-g controls for comparison. Results will clarify GE’s adsorption mechanism and support water-treatment technologies for space and Earth.
Oral 14: Tampa, Florida
School and/or District: University of South Florida
Grade levels of Team: 14 and 16
Title: Utilizing Chitosan-Hydrogel in Microgravity for Wound Application
Type of Experiment: Flight Experiment, Mission 21 to ISS
Co-Principal Investigators: Krystal Walford, Jaiden Brick, Jade Fei, Hannah Kirschenmann
Collaborators: Eva Fernandez, Ridita Khan, Tuhin Bhattacharjee, Yusef Emirov
Teacher Facilitator: Sylvia Thomas
Abstract: In microgravity, hydrogel formation processes may behave differently than they do on Earth, potentially changing the gel’s structure, strength, and water-retention ability. The investigation will determine whether the absence of gravity results in a more stable chitosan hydrogel. The results could improve the design of wound-treatment materials for astronauts on missions and for patients on Earth. Understanding how microgravity alters chitosan hydrogel behavior will also contribute to the broader development of sustainable biomaterials for use in future applications.
Oral 15: Asheville, North Carolina
School and/or District: Asheville Buncombe Technical Community College
Grade levels of Team: Undergraduate
Title: How are Lubricating Oils Affected by Microgravity?
Type of Experiment: Flight Experiment, Mission 21 to ISS
Principal Investigator: Curtis Epley
Teacher Facilitator: Shannon T. Bonomi
Abstract: The experiment will involve sending various lubricating oils into a microgravity environment to observe how their properties are affected. The main problems is there are few greases that are usable for space flight, as the grease cant contain any petroleum. The greases that are available now are fairly expensive. control sample will remain on Earth to serve as a baseline for comparison. The knowledge gained will help determine what greases are most suitable for flight and sustained operation in microgravity.
Oral 16: Athens, Ohio
School and/or District: Ohio University
Grade levels of Team: 14-15
Title: Examining the Effect of Microgravity on the Metabolism of the Antihistamine
Promethazine hydrochloride, using Caenorhabditis elegans as a Model
Type of Experiment: Flight Experiment, Mission 21 to ISS
Co-Principal Investigators: Makenna Brown, Tiffany Carter, Ja’Laura Morris, Elli Naso
Teacher Facilitator: Dr. Timothy Etheridge
Abstract: This experiment examines the effects of microgravity on the metabolism of promethazine, a motion sickness drug commonly used by astronauts. These tests seek to deepen the understanding of how microgravity impacts the body’s ability to absorb and metabolize drugs in space, and the potential implications for future deep space missions. The compiled data will also contribute to ongoing research in drug pharmacokinetics, furthering the innovation of new drugs that are better suited for use in microgravity.
Oral 17: San Antonio, Texas
School and/or District: Space and Engineering Technologies Academy (SETA) at Krueger Middle School, North East Independent School District
Grade level of Team: 7
Title: Does Microgravity Affect the Way Rye Seeds Grow?
Type of Experiment: Flight Experiment, Mission 21 to ISS
Principal Investigator: Miah Stepanenko-Riccio
Investigators: Anjail Penaflor, Andrew De Marigny
Teacher Facilitator: Kameron Sakaguchi
Abstract: The Effects of Microgravity on Rye Seed Growth The experiment will study the growth in length and direction of stems and roots of Rye Plants (Secale cereale) in microgravity. The reason for this experiment is to learn more about how plants grow in space and, if possible, to see if future astronauts could potentially grow produce in space. If the experiment determines that growth in space is possible, it could make way for future research and help us understand more about plant life in space.