Last update of this page: June 9, 2023, 11:42 am ET
IMPACT OF WAR IN UKRAINE: 37 communities participated in Mission 17 to ISS. Ukraine was one of the communities and participated as a Ukraine-wide national program engaging 1,099 Ukrainian students in microgravity experiment design, Due to the war, Step 1 Review of the Ukrainian proposals and selection of finalist proposals was delayed 1.5 months. The Mission 17 Step 2 Review Board met as planned on November 28-29, 2022, to select flight experiments for the other 36 communities. An out-of-cycle Step 2 Review Board was convened for Ukraine on Thursday, January 19, 2023, to select 2 flight experiments. The Ukrainian flight teams will follow the same Critical Timeline for flight operations as the other Mission 17 flight experiments.
The Student Spaceflight Experiments Program is proud to report that there were a total of 2,261 proposals submitted from student teams across the 37 communities participating in Mission 17 to ISS. Of those, 1,208 proposals were forwarded for review by Step 1 Review Boards in each of the communities. Each Step 1 Review Board selected up to three finalist proposals (for each flight secured by the community), which were submitted to the National SSEP Step 2 Review Board.
On November 29 and 30, 2022, the Step 2 Review Board met via Zoom, reviewed 106 finalist proposals from 36 communities, and selected one proposed experiment to fly for each of 35 communities, and 2 experiments to fly for one community. By December 16, 2022, the National Center for Earth and Space Science Education and the Arthur C. Clarke Institute for Space Education formally notified each community of their selected flight experiments.
On January 19, 2023, the Board met via Zoom to review the 6 finalist proposals from Ukraine and selected two experiments to fly. By February 3, 2023, the National Center for Earth and Space Science Education and the Arthur C. Clarke Institute for Space Education formally notified this community of their selected flight experiments.
A total of 39 flight experiments were therefore selected for SSEP Mission 17 to ISS.
It is noteworthy that the 2,261 proposals received reflected a total of 12,859 grade 5-16 students fully engaged in experiment design.
All 112 finalist experiment teams, along with descriptions of their proposed flight experiments, are provided below. You are also invited to meet the SSEP Step 2 Review Board members for Mission 17 to ISS.
Congratulations to the over 12,850 students and their teachers participating in Student Spaceflight Experiments Program Mission 17 to the International Space Station.
Quickly Scroll to Individual Communities
- Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Ukraine
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Glendora, California
- Moreno Valley, California
- Hillsborough County, Florida
- Ocala, Florida
- Osprey, Florida
- Viera, Florida
- Jonesboro, Georgia
- Grayslake, Illinois
- Lake Charles, Louisiana
- University System of Maryland, Maryland
- Westland, Michigan
- Edina, Minnesota
- Las Vegas, Nevada
- Camden, New Jersey
- Springfield, New Jersey
- Albany, New York
- Brooklyn, New York – BSEA
- Buffalo/Niagara, New York
- Garden City, New York
- Long Beach, New York
- Lynbrook, New York
- Norwood, New York
- Red Hook, New York
- Pickerington, Ohio
- Gervais, Oregon
- Erie, Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – CCAC
- Bandera, Texas
- Burleson, Texas
- Ector County, Texas
- McKinney, Texas
- Texarkana, Texas
- Renton, Washington
- iForward-Grantsburg, Wisconsin
1. Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
The Effects of Microgravity on the Statoliths and Statocyst Cells in Lepidium sativum (Garden Cress)
Grade 9, Parkview School, Edmonton Public Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: Samuel Cullen, Scott Erskine
Co-Investigators: Marcus Li, Xiaolin Liu
Teacher Facilitator: Morgan McKinnon
Student researchers (left to right: Scott Erskine, Marcus Li, XiaoLin Liu and Samuel Cullen) conduct sample measurements for their experiment examining the Effects of Microgravity on the Statoliths and Statocyst Cells in Lepidium sativum (Garden Cress).
Proposal Summary:
This experimentation will test the effects of microgravity on the statolith and statocyst cells in a garden cress plant (Lepidium sativum). By looking at the direction, length, and general health of the shoots and roots of a garden cress plant grown on the ISS, compared to a Lepidium sativum grown here on Earth, will gain an excellent idea on how microgravity can affect the statoliths inside plants. This experiment will be useful should humans ever need to sustain life in an environment with little gravity. The information this experiment provides will help grow plants reliably in space, which is necessary should humans ever need a renewable food source in space to survive, whether for convenience or survival sake. Being able to grow plants in space will allow us to prolong the amount of time astronauts can stay up in space, possibly even allowing long time space travel for years at a time, in time. Growing plants in space will also have the added bonus of letting the astronauts have a fresh meal every once in a while. It also helps to examine the importance of statoliths and statocyst cells inside plants, being one of the main six stimuli plants use to determine the direction of growth in its different parts.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
How Microgravity Affects the Corrosion Rate of Steel Alloy
Grade 8, Michael Strembitsky School, Edmonton Public Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: Chloe Banfield, Farrah Barry, Nik Chin
Teacher Facilitator: Julie Arsenault
Proposal Summary:
This experiment will be conducted in order to determine whether or not microgravity affects the corrosion of the steel alloy found in cam lock screws, while the metal is exposed to salt water. This will help to determine if steel alloy is a good material to utilize in space establishment and exploration. Corrosion is the oxidation of metal when exposed to another chemical. However, it is typically a slow process, which is why this experiment will utilize salt water as a catalyst. Salt water is a useful catalyst because the salt causes the electrolytes in metals to loosen, and increases the conductivity in water. We will also be sanding and cutting the screws into smaller pieces to increase the surface area exposed to the catalyst. This evaluation will be comparing two different experiments each containing two equally cut steel alloy cam lock screws using mass to determine the kind of corrosion that may have occurred and which steel alloy screws may have undergone more or less corrosion. Measuring the mass will be done using a 5-figure balance to ensure accuracy. This will allow an understanding on whether microgravity makes a difference on corrosion levels in steel alloy. If this material corrodes faster in microgravity, it would suggest this material is not ideal for construction.
The Effects of Microgravity on the Germination of Sunflower Seeds
Grade 8, Michael Strembitsky School, Edmonton Public Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: Sarah Beaulieu, Ellie Morison, Avaia Paddy, Alex Zdebiak
Teacher Facilitator: Julie Arsenault
Proposal Summary:
In this experiment, we would like to investigate how microgravity affects the length of the shoots and roots in germinated sunflower seeds. Sunflower seeds are a source of many vitamins and minerals such as; vitamin E, selenium, zinc, iron, folate, calcium, potassium and many more that can support your immune system and increase your ability to fight off viruses. This is important because, if your immune system were to fail in space, illness developed in the body would most likely recover better. We chose to experiment with Early Russian sunflower
seeds, because they have a shorter germination period. Gravity plays an important part in the growth of a sunflower by suppressing the growth rate, having the shoot grow thicker and healthier due to gravity suppressing the molecules of the stem. We want to find out if
microgravity affects the shape of the sunflower’s shoot size compared to how it would grow on Earth. To perform this experiment, we will need to use the Type 3 FME Mini-lab. The seeds will be provided with water needed for germination during the flight and then germination will be stopped, approximately 12 days later, using formaldehyde which will also preserve the germinated seeds to be analyzed upon return to Earth. The same timeline will also be followed with our ground sample and the two sets of seeds will be compared.
2. Ukraine
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Effect of Humic Substances on the Growth and Metabolism of Yeasts in Microgravity
Grades 8-10, Municipal extracurricular educational institution “Junior Academy of Sciences for School Students” of the Dnipropetrovsk Regional Council in collaboration with the National Center “Junior Academy of Sciences of Ukraine”
Principal Investigator: Tetiana Rodyhina
Co-Investigators: Daniela Dykun, Roman Rodynskyi, Marko Yurchenko
Teacher Facilitator: Maryna Bilan
Young researchers are acquiring analysis skills in the microbiology laboratory.
Proposal Summary:
Yeasts are cheap, attractive, and readily available residual sources of proteins and valuable bio-active compounds (amino acids, vitamins) directly at space stations. Moreover, we can use genetically modified yeasts to obtain valuable substances there. Yeasts are simple to cultivate and a well-known biological model object. Yeasts can react differently to microgravity conditions: they change morphology and biochemical processes. Microgravity conditions can adversely affect yeast growth, protein content, and other physiological processes. It is essential to find low-cost yeast growth promoters in microgravity. They would provide sufficient yeast yield. In earth conditions, yeast growth may be enhanced by adding humic substances to yeast cultural medium. Humic acids provide the higher biological value of yeast products obtained. In addition, we can use yeasts and humic substances as effective plant growth biostimulator at space stations. We want to discover whether humic acids can be used as yeast growth promoters in microgravity and how these substances affect yeast division, growth, protein content, and fermentation. We hypothesize that humic substances will be effective yeast biostimulants, so it will be possible to improve yeast cultivation at space stations and during long space flights to obtain valuable products.
Influence of Microgravity and G-force on Diffusion in Metals
Grade 9, Kryvyi Rih Lyceum No. 129 in collaboration with the National Center Junior Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Principal Investigator: Victoria Syvolap
Co-Investigators: Yelyzaveta Harasimova, Yelyzaveta Melnychenko
Collaborator: Hanna Martyniak
Teacher Facilitator: Natalia Lykhopavlo
The team is preparing samples for testing in terrestrial conditions by combining two metal plates with thread and a heat shrink tube.
Proposal Summary:
The expansion of humanity within the Solar System is natural and inevitable. The crucial requirement for any extraterrestrial human settlement is to set up a habitat with conditions like on Earth. Constructing space stations involves the application of various materials. In particular, conventional copper and aluminum alloys are used in construction. They provide long-term and consistent performance in metal structures, as conductors, and as components of heating systems. Solid metals are known to diffuse into each other during long-term operation, which changes the properties of products produced from these metals and alloys. In some cases, when the tightness of a structure is required, this phenomenon will be advantageous. Alternatively, if a specific item requires systematic replacement or movement after long-term exploitation, the diffusion process will extend the time required to troubleshoot and repair failed equipment. We hypothesize that metal diffusion processes will occur more intensively in microgravity and during transportation (G-Force conditions). The project aims to evaluate the change in diffusion that occurs in contact with different metal surfaces during transportation to and from earth orbit and microgravity. This research will contribute to the development of microgravity materials science.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
Germination of Mung Beans (Vigna radiata) in Microgravity Conditions
Grades 7-8, Vinnytsia Regional Station of Young Naturalists in collaboration with the National Center Junior Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Principal Investigator: Victoria Khlibovych
Co-Investigators: Iryna Marchuk, Olena Makodai
Collaborator: Anna Rudnyk
Teacher Facilitator: Olena Luskalo
Proposal Summary:
How effective are mung bean (Vigna radiata) seeds treated with aloe juice germination in microgravity conditions? Since astronauts have been in space for a long time, mung bean seeds can be the primary substitute for supplementing the astronauts’ diet with proteins. Mung bean sprouts are sprouted Vigna radiata mung beans (mung bean, Asian bean, golden bean), which can be eaten raw or cooked. The mildly sweet taste of mung bean sprouts allows us to use them for various purposes. Mung bean is primarily a helpful protein that everyone needs. Twenty-three grams of protein are in 100 grams of mung bean, almost entirely absorbed by the body. Our main idea is that it is possible to consume mung beans in a sprouted state. Masha germinates quickly within a day (under suitable conditions). Accordingly, our experiment aims to study mung beans in microgravity conditions. Before germinating mung beans, it is recommended to wash it thoroughly. A warm, moist germination environment creates ideal conditions for the reproduction of disease-causing bacteria, so growing mung beans treated with aloe juice will prevent the spread of bacteria.
Impact of Paenibacillus polymyxa P6.3 on the Grain Germination in Microgravity Conditions
Grade 7, Gymnasium 59 Named After O. Boychenko Holosiivskyi District of Kyiv in collaboration with the National Center Junior Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Co-Principal Investigators: Volodymyr Vitchecnko, Bohdan Polishchuk, Mark Stetsiak
Co-Investigators: Maxym Korzh, Mykhailo Maryshuk, Anton Polishchuk
Teacher Facilitator: Olena Prokopets
Proposal Summary:
Plant symbiotic microorganisms are used to develop agrobiotechnological preparations for organic farming. The reason is their ability to stimulate plant growth, increase their resistance to environmental stresses (drought, salinity) and exert an antagonistic effect on pathogens. The use of agrobiotechnological preparations in cultivating strategically critical crops, such as wheat, is crucial, given their exceptional importance for human life. Symbiotic microorganisms colonize all parts of the plant: the outer surface of the above-ground part (phyllosphere), the underground part (rhizosphere, root), as well as the inner space (endosphere), including grain tissues. Symbiotic microorganisms of the root and rhizosphere are usually used to develop agrobiotechnological preparations. The potential of endophytic microorganisms has been studied much less, despite their unique properties: the ability to survive adverse conditions of long-term grain storage, to regulate the colonization of a plant by other symbiotic microorganisms in the process of plant growth, and to influence the stress and disease resistance of a plant during early growth stages. We received a strain of Paenibacillus polymyxa P6.3 with multiple plant growth-promoting properties (phosphate solubilizing, oligonitrotrophy, and heteroauxin production) and antagonistic activity against phytopathogenic bacteria from the culturable bacterial endophyte community of the winter wheat grain (Podolyanka variety) with increased resistance to the causative agent of basal glume rot Pseudomonas syringaepv atrofaciens. The study aims to study the effect of P. polymyxa P6.3 on wheat grain germination, coleoptile and primary root growth, and seedling tissue colonization in microgravity conditions.
The Microgravity Impact on Growing Lepidium sativum L. Using Nitrogenous Fertilizer, “Carbamide”
Grade 10, Rivne Regional Scientific Lyceum, Rivne Region in collaboration with the National Center Junior Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Co-Principal Investigators: Anastasiia Khomych, Daryna Yaskal
Collaborator: Kateryna Denysiuk
Teacher Facilitator: Oksana Shtempel
Proposal Summary:
The microgravity impact on growing Lepidium sativum L. is planned by using nitrogenous fertilizer “Carbamide.” The microgreen Lepidium sativum L. can be the perspective plant for space missions because its composition contains proteins, dietary fibers, omega-3, fatty acids, iron, and other minor elements. Taking microgreens prevents thyroid disorders, avitaminosis, and skin diseases.
Germination and Formation of Mycelium from Trichoderma spores of the Biological Preparation “Viridin” in Microgravity Conditions
Grade 8, Taras Shevchenko Lyceum in collaboration with the National Center Junior Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Co-Principal Investigators: Anna Kiselova, Polina Sharandak
Investigator: Veronika Serbina
Collaborator: Anhelina Ushenko,
Teacher Facilitator: Tetiana Khlimenkova
Proposal Summary:
The research will determine the effect of microgravity on spore germination and mycelium formation of Trichoderma fungus in a nutrient medium. Trichoderma is a good organism for use in space, as this fungus can convert organic waste into a source of protein mass and fight pathogenic fungi that affect humans and plants. Trichoderma can stimulate plant growth. In this project, it will be investigated whether the mycelium of the Trichoderma will grow on an artificial nutrient medium in microgravity conditions.
3. Phoenix, Arizona
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Red Desiree Potato and Sweet Potato
Grade 5, Desert Mirage Elementary School, Pendergast Elementary School District #92
Co-Principal Investigators: Zoe Harrold, Sophia Ketring, Brynn Smith
Teacher Facilitator: Catherine Linhardt
5th grade students from Pendergast School District working on a science project. Pictured left to right: Brynn Smith, Sophia Ketring, and Zoey Harrold.
Proposal Summary:
Why are potatoes grown in space? Let us tell you why potatoes and sweet potatoes are serious contenders for space agriculture! Due to their high carbohydrate content and their tuberous nature that gives them low light requirements, potatoes should grow well in space. As well, the eyes of potatoes produce sprouts that can be used to grow more plants, thereby making them a simple, reliable food source. If sweet potatoes grow in space then why shouldn’t others, if others do not grow why? Our theory is that all potatoes grow but if not, is it because of vitamins content or sugar level? Potatoes can be a reliable food source for astronauts and it is also high in a lot of nutrients. Potatoes have a good recourse of vitamins that could be helpful for astronauts to eat. The potato is a staple food source for many people around the world. With zero percent fat, potatoes contain many important vitamins. Red Desiree Potatoes are the healthiest potatoes if they can grow in space. The sweet potato has more vitamin B5, fiber, and manganese but red potatoes have more vitamin A RAE and vitamin C. This might be the reason why only sweet potatoes grow in space but we want to find out.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
How Can Plant Based Lysozyme Crystals Help Astronauts?
Grade 5, Desert Mirage Elementary School, Pendergast Elementary School District #92
Co-Principal Investigators: Maryjane Bustillos, Leah Castillo, Addison Ranney, Sophia Sanchez
Teacher Facilitator: Catherine Linhardt
Proposal Summary:
After doing research, the students at Desert Mirage Elementary named Maryjane Bustillos, Leah Castillo, Addison Ranney, and Sophia Sanchez Castillo are proposing the launch of a research project on Lysozyme crystals. This test’s purpose is to see what effects microgravity has on lysozymes. If the experiment were to succeed, then the benefits of lysozyme crystals can be more explained in diagram form. Lysozyme crystals are naturally grown in animals and plants, it functions as the digestive system of the cell. Lysozyme can prevent kidney injury but, if any of your lysozymes get ruptured, it can cause damage to the cell. Also, microgravity offers an environment for protein crystallization. Lysozymes are very interesting!
Potato Growth in Space
Grade 5, Desert Mirage Elementary School, Pendergast Elementary School District #92
Principal Investigator: Carlos Morez
Co-Investigators: Javier Enriquez, Landon King, John Novella
Teacher Facilitator: Catherine Linhardt
Proposal Summary:
After doing research, the students at Desert Mirage Elementary school, whose names are Javier, John, Landon, and Carlos, are proposing to NASA about the need for potato growth in space. They are writing a summary about potatoes and so far have found information about potatoes. Potatoes can be used for different types of food and are a vegetable that has nutrients beneficial to the astronauts. They need to see if potatoes can grow in space and what the effects microgravity will have on the potatoes and how the growth is impacted. If potatoes can be grown in space then it would give a solution to food sources for astronauts. When astronauts go to space they would be able to enjoy some fresh potatoes from space potatoes and have nutrients and the potatoes can help them be healthy and not starve. Space potatoes can give the astronauts a good meal for as long as they have to stay in space. Potatoes can grow in space because of the high carbohydrate and their tuberous nature that gives them low light recruitment.
4. Glendora, California
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Mushroom Leather Proposal
Grades 11-12, Glendora High School, Glendora Unified School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Tyler Lai, Benjamin Tallman
Investigator: Dylan Anderson
Collaborator: Justin Tong
Teacher Facilitator: Jimmy Liao
Glendora’s M17 flight team transferring purified mycelium from agar plates to liquid solution.
Proposal Summary:
By testing the growth capabilities of mushrooms on the International Space Station, an interval of gravity may be established where mushrooms can grow. If mushrooms grow sufficiently in zero gravity and with Earth’s gravity, planets smaller than Earth will also be suitable for mushroom growth. Due to the many capacity restrictions both sending materials to space and areas that may be dedicated to farming, there are many problems with traditional cloth farming methods. Traditional cow leather would be extremely difficult to sustain in space, because bringing up live animals would take up precious space and materials making this difficult, costly, and impractical. Traditional production of cotton would require both soil, water, and space to be farmed. Bringing mushrooms up into space would be area efficient (grown in tubes) and resource efficient (all parts are usable). Measuring how mushrooms grow in a zero gravity environment will allow humans to determine the viability of creating mushroom leather in space as an option for sustainable cloth.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
How a Microgravity Environment Affects the Rate and Behavior of Biological Decay on an Algae Sample
Grades 9-10, Glendora High School, Glendora Unified School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Laura Wilmsen, Chloe Wilmsen
Co-Investigator: Zhang Yi
Teacher Facilitator: Jimmy Liao
Proposal Summary:
In this experiment, the objective is to place an organic organism into a microgravity environment and observe the nature and rate of decay under a zero gravity environment. This will be measured by the amount of surface area covered by mold and size of the marimo. The time rate
of decay that will take place in space is what the experiment is trying to discover, and it will compare the time it took to decay in a microgravity environment to the time it takes to decay in a natural environment.This experiment would test out the time difference in terms of decaying with encountering the mold, and will hopefully shed some insight on the effects of a space environment on cells and organisms.
Microgravity’s Effect on Mushrooms for the Use of Colonization
Grade 11, Glendora High School, Glendora Unified School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Nicole Amer, Katherine Carpio, Teddy Shiggins
Teacher Facilitator: Jimmy Liao
Proposal Summary:
As of late, due to more and more increases in advancements relating to space, the possibility that humans will go to Mars and beyond becomes more and more likely every day. Although the idea gets closer, the trip presents numerous challenges, such as the sheer amount of
time the journey takes, as well as the long trip needed to return to Earth. One of the biggest problems on these long trips will be the problem of sustainable food, and therefore this experiment will hope to solve this problem. Mushrooms will be a great alternative to traditional foods, as they are a fungus, able to grow without sunlight or water, the exact environment that would be on the space flights that future astronauts would partake in. In addition to this, the radiation that accumulates on these flights will also be null; mushrooms have the ability to survive in radiation, and in some cases, even thrive. One unpredictability of space travel, however, is how the lack of gravity would affect the growth of mushrooms. Therefore, this experiment will test that very aspect, to see if gravity will be a major factor in the development of enoki mushrooms; to do that, there will be two different sets of mushrooms, one on Earth, and one on the Space Station. The only difference in the two will be the location, therefore testing the effects of gravity on the growth of the mushrooms.
5. Moreno Valley, California
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
The Strength of Concrete with Eggshells as Filler in Microgravity
Grade 11, Canyon Springs High School, Moreno Valley Unified School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Jeannavie Bonos, Sidney Figueroa
Investigator: April Snyder
Collaborator: Samantha Piotrowski
Teacher Facilitator: Divina Elbo
Young scientists from Moreno Valley exploring solutions to the challenges of colonizing space.
Proposal Summary:
The team attempts to answer the question: “How does microgravity affect the strength of the concrete with eggshells as a filler?” The experiment will hopefully help to add more solutions to the challenges of NASA’s plans to colonize the moon. In the future when space habitats similar to Earth are discovered, there will be a challenge of reducing wastes like the problem on Earth. Eggshells are potential agricultural waste in space that could potentially be used as a filler for concrete. The eggshell concrete mixture has already been made on Earth and thus the team wants to investigate the strength of the concrete mixture if they are the same or comparable to the one made on Earth. Using eggshells within the experiment would create an efficient and sustainable filler for concrete. Many materials that are needed to create concrete with eggshell fillers are already found in space, which means the potential results of the experiment could also support the minimization of storage space on the ISS and an avoidance of the total cost of transporting materials to space. If the experiment is successful, it will be a sustainable method that can further NASA’s plans of setting-up research facilities and colonizing the moon.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
Germinating Serrano Chili Peppers in Microgravity
Grade 7, Palm Middle School, Moreno Valley Unified School District
Principal Investigator: Har Darvesh Singh
Co-Investigators: Daniel Ly, Daniel Ortega
Collaborators: Israel Inzunza, Maxximiliano Sanchez
Teacher Facilitator: Victoria Bavier
Proposal Summary:
This experiment will determine if serrano chili peppers are able to germinate in microgravity. We think that the seed has a chance at germination because it matches most of the requirements of a microgravity environment. It doesn’t require much sunlight to grow, it grows
relatively fast and doesn’t require a lot of water. Therefore, despite the harsh environment and conditions, we believe it will germinate. However, we think all of the ground truth seeds will sprout roots in the same direction, but the ones from the ISS will sprout in all directions. This is because, on Earth, gravity helps the root grow downward. Since in microgravity, there is no up or down, the roots will grow in all directions If this experiment goes as planned and is successful, we can see how plants are able to adapt to microgravity and see how it grows differently than on Earth. Also, the way that we can compare the plant’s root germination by using cameras.
The Effect of Microgravity on the Development and Hatch Rate of Fairy Shrimp
Grades 11-12, Valley View High School, Moreno Valley Unified School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Daniel Christensen, Isabella Mercado, Christian Orozco, Jonathan Velazquez
Teacher Facilitator: Stacy Katzenstein
Proposal Summary:
Our Proposed experiment will study Fairy shrimp, or Streptocephalus sirindhornae, and the effects of microgravity on their growth, development and hatch rate. Our team found the fairy shrimp to be a reliable subject for testing as they are small enough to fit in the FME and can easily be sent to the ISS as eggs, or cysts. These cysts are known to be very resilient and are able to survive harsh temperatures and even a vacuum environment. Once the experiment is on-orbit, we will activate the cysts by adding freshwater, which allows the eggs to hatch and the shrimp to grow. To terminate the experiment the astronauts will add formalin which will kill the shrimp and preserve them until the experiment returns to earth. Our results will then be measured by looking at the shrimp under a microscope and comparing their growth to the other shrimp we will grow in a ground-truth experiment. If our proposed experiment is successful the fairy shrimp could be used in a water filtration system on future space missions. This is because fairy shrimp can help filter water by consuming the plankton and algae. The shrimp could also act as a food source for freshwater fish. This could be the first step in a food chain where fish could be raised on future space missions to feed astronauts.
6. Hillsborough County, Florida
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
The Microgreen of the Future: Amaranthus tricolor
Grades 6-8, Randall Middle School, Hillsborough County Public Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: Savannah Kersey, Sanjana Rao
Investigator: Nathan Bohra, Crystal Heidenreich, Ricardo Melendez, Nichita Scobelev
Teacher Facilitator: Mary Vaughn
Researchers Nathan Bohra, Crystal Heidenreich, Savannah Kersey, Ricardo Melendez, Sanjana Rao, and Nichita Scobelev refining the procedures of their experiment – The Microgreen of the Future: Amaranthus tricolor.
Proposal Summary:
The essential question to be addressed is if the Red Garnet Amaranth Microgreen (Amaranthus tricolor) can sustain its germination rate in microgravity and therefore sustain its nutritional value as compared to Earth? This question is so essential to the astronauts because if the microgreen can germinate properly, growing substantial amounts of Amaranthus tricolor in space is necessary for astronauts to get their daily nutrients. It is full of vitamin K which helps with proper bodily clotting. This helps the astronauts who are very prone to liquids clotting in their nose and other areas. It is also full of Calcium, which is such a necessity to astronauts because of possible bone and teeth decay in space. It also contains magnesium, which can help with heart health and circulatory health while in space. That combined with the fact that it can be mass produced in hundreds in one enclosure make it the ideal plant to carry with you on long expeditions far from home while in microgravity. Even though astronauts venture into space for prolonged periods of time their genetic compound still originates from earth, as they are still human, and they still need the same necessities as regular people if not more, due to the effects of microgravity. The Red Garnet Amaranth Microgreen (Amaranthus tricolor) can meet those expectations and more on earth, but if it can germinate in space, and retain that same nutritional value, it would be a major achievement for astronauts.
The changes of nutritional and germination values of Sesame microgreens in microgravity
Grades 7-8, Randall Middle School, Hillsborough County Public Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: John Lonappan, Aadrita Roy
Teacher Facilitator: Mary Vaughn
Lonappan John and Aadrita Roy analyzing trials to optimize their microgravity experiment exploring germination and growth of Sesamun indicum.
Proposal Summary:
This experiment addresses the problem of sufficient nutritional value of food on long duration flights. The plan is to grow the seeds on Earth and in microgravity and measure frequency of growth, as well as the nutritional value of sesame microgreens (Sesamum indicum) before and after sending them up into space. The base for this experiment is the knowledge that sesame microgreens have nutrients including Selenium, Calcium, Vitamins A, B1, B3, B5, B6, E, and is rich in antioxidants which are especially important nutrients especially when in space. Success of the experiment will result in a variety of nutritious crops that will serve as a supplement to astronauts’ meals. When carrying out the experiment, the team will be using an instrument called the Brix Refractometer which will measure nutrition. It will play a key role in the investigation, since not only is the team investigating the frequency rate for germination, but also checking to see whether the nutritional value will be retained in microgravity. If the experiment proves that sesame microgreens can keep their nutritional value, the Sesame microgreens will be a reliable, easy to grow source of nutrient rich food for long duration flights in space for astronauts everywhere around the world.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
Handy, Dandy Dandelions
Grade 6, Randall Middle School, Hillsborough County Public Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: Bridget Bohan, Jade Thorn
Co-Investigators: Jaclyn Mathews, Mahi Mishra
Collaborators: Sophia Arsenou, James Durham, Quinn Duval, Maximilian Maccocmmon, Kerem Topsakal
Teacher Facilitator: Mary Vaughn
Proposal Summary:
For this proposal, the investigation will explore the effects of microgravity on the hydroponically grown Common Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) to obtain information on whether it is capable of properly growing and changing in microgravity. For example, we will be looking at changes in its physical properties and cell composition. The basis for this investigation includes the prior knowledge that the Common Dandelion contains numerous nutrients that include, calcium, magnesium, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin E. If the hypothesis proves true, then the Common Dandelion shall be an efficient crop to grow in microgravity. It will also prove to be a practical crop for long duration missions and future stays at the ISS, to have fresh food beyond their home.
7. Ocala, Florida
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Does Microgravity Affect Protein Production of Escherichia coli?
Grades 5-6, Dr. N.H. Jones Elementary, Marion County Public Schools
Principal Investigator: Collins Sheldon
Teacher Facilitator: Lisa Dorsey
In a sterile laboratory environment, Collins is mixing Triton X with E. coli.
Proposal Summary:
This experiment will test if protein production in microgravity is possible and more efficient than under normal gravitational conditions. If protein production is possible and more efficient can biopharmaceuticals ever be made in microgravity and if so, would the outcome be more efficient? The manufacturing of proteins in microgravity could have positive implications towards the production of medications to treat diseases such as cancer, diabetes, influenza, and even Covid. As bacteria becomes resistant to the medications used to treat illnesses, new biopharmaceuticals will be needed to improve health and save lives. As space colonization becomes a reality, space pioneers will need the ability to create effective medications in microgravity conditions for the health and safety of space travelers. The results from the microgravity mini lab will be analyzed and compared to the ground truth mini lab results.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
Will Microgravity Affect Planarian Worm Regeneration?
Grade 5, Dr. N.H. Jones Elementary, Marion County Public Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: Sam Adam Arkoub, Kirin Mathew
Co-Investigators: Lucas Gonzalez, Aaren Seevaratnam
Collaborator: Samuel Drada Marta
Teacher Facilitator: Lisa Dorsey
Proposal Summary:
Will the regeneration of planarian worms be affected when exposed to microgravity? Planarian worms are helpful because they may play a crucial role in the study of mammalian regeneration. They have an incredible ability to regenerate any part of their body. They are role models in regeneration. Their process of binary fission, which is the process of regeneration, is powered by neoblast cells. Neoblast cells can turn into any cell. The experiment will study how the head, tail, and middle sections of a planaria regenerate when cut into three separate parts. The results may help with future tissue, limb, and organ regeneration of mammals.
Does Repeated Exposure to Microgravity Affect Lycopene Production?
Grades 5-6, Dr. N.H. Jones Elementary, Marion County Public Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: Vallari Bhuskute, Hadley Driver, Mahi Patel, Collins Sheldon
Teacher Facilitator: Lisa Dorsey
Proposal Summary:
Lycopene is an antioxidant found in tomatoes. Consuming lycopene has been tied to lower levels of cancer development. This experiment will test if seeds with repeated exposure to microgravity cause tomato plants to produce tomatoes with higher levels of lycopene. The experiment will send previously exposed tomato seeds, Tomatosphere seeds, back to microgravity for a second exposure. After returning to Earth and regular gravitational conditions, seeds with two time exposure to microgravity, one-time exposure, and never-exposed seeds will be planted and the tomatoes from all three types of seeds will be tested for lycopene levels. If the results show that seeds with multiple exposures to microgravity result in tomatoes with higher levels of lycopene, repeated exposure to microgravity may lead to a possible way to combat cancer.
8. Osprey, Florida
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
The ability of microalga ,Chlorella vulgaris, to remove nitrogen and phosphorous from wastewater in microgravity
Grade 7, Pine View School for the Gifted, Sarasota County Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: Yatharth Kakkad, Felix Ratner, Rugan Suresh, Rishik Yellu
Teacher Facilitator: Marie Rosander
Rishik Yellu, Yatharth Kakkad, Felix Ratner and Rugan Suresh examining their trials at USF (University of South Florida).
Proposal Summary:
This experiment investigates the ability of microalga Chlorella vulgaris to remove nitrogen and phosphorous from wastewater in microgravity. Microalgae are complex photosynthetic organisms that have evolved for over three billion years and are emerging as a green solution for water treatment and nutrient recycling on Earth. If microalgae can remove contaminants from synthetic wastewater in microgravity, then they could play a key role in self-sustained life support systems which are essential for long term space missions. The contaminants in the synthetic wastewater that the microalgae are removing would provide nutrients for the microalgae to grow, creating an
optimal cycle. The strain Chlorella vulgaris has been chosen because it can grow heterotrophically using organic carbon and wastewater. In both the ground control and ISS experiments, the Chlorella vulgaris culture will be added to a mixture of wastewater and glucose solution. Two days before undocking for return to Earth, both experiments will be terminated using a fixative. The difference in the levels of nitrogen and phosphorous between the ground and ISS experiments will be analyzed to determine how microgravity impacted the experiment. Using microalgae as a solution will not only provide the benefit of cleaner water in space but will also generate oxygen and high value bioproducts in the process.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
The Effects of Microgravity on the Growth and Development of Common Yeast Species Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Grade 8, Pine View School for the Gifted, Sarasota County Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: Aadi Bhensdadia, Keith Chen, Jakob Roche
Teacher Facilitator: Marie Rosander
Proposal Summary:
Space colonization is inevitable. To sustainably produce crops in orbit and beyond, fertilizers will surely be needed in a consistent, reliable supply. That is where yeast, which has been shown to have a stimulating effect on plant growth, comes in. Yeast is a key component in the production of many foods and is also utilized in the production of extremely rich fertilizers which will be indispensable in inexpensive food production for future human space travel. To achieve scalable production of fertilizers in space, it is necessary that yeast be grown in microgravity conditions. However, few studies have been conducted that give definitive evidence as to what the constraints microgravity poses upon yeast are. This experiment concerns the culture, development, and population dynamics of common yeast species Saccharomyces cerevisiae in microgravity. To receive accurate results from this experiment, we shall place two identical samples of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in identically controlled environments, and the only variable that will be changed is the exposure to conditions associated with microgravity. One sample will be exposed to microgravity conditions while the other will remain on Earth. After the growth phase, both samples shall be examined simultaneously, and we will be able to determine how microgravity affects the development of yeast.
Will Microgravity Have a Meaningful Effect on the Cytoskeleton and Phagocytic Abilities of Chaos carolinense Amoebas?
Grade 11, Pine View School for the Gifted, Sarasota County Schools
Principal Investigator: Abigail Pereira
Investigator: Afrin Pajulullah
Collaborators: Shireen Kaveh, Sanjana Prakash
Teacher Facilitator: Dylan Bell
Proposal Summary:
It is commonly known that upon returning to Earth, astronauts are more susceptible to contracting different diseases from weakened immune systems. It is believed that this is a result of microgravity conditions deforming the cytoskeleton of white blood cells, such as monocytes. The deformation of these monocytes’ cytoskeletons causes a decrease in ability to carry out phagocytosis, a major process in immune system defense, wherein monocytes engulf pathogens and components of tumor cells to shield the body from cancer and other possible infections. Our experiment aims to test the effects of microgravity on the phagocytic abilities of Chaos carolinense amoebas, which carry out phagocytosis similarly to human monocytes through actin polymerization. To accomplish this, we will create two closed systems containing the amoebas, with the difference between the vials being gravity conditions. One vial will be kept on Earth as the control, and the other will be sent to space to be cultivated under microgravity conditions. To test the amoebas’ phagocytic abilities in both the control group on Earth and the experimental group in space, we will use latex bead markers. The effectiveness of phagocytosis between the groups will give insight into whether structural deformities in monocytes’ cytoskeletons is what deters the body’s ability to fight diseases. We hypothesize that if an amoeba population grows and develops in microgravity, then it will consume fewer latex beads than an amoeba population that has grown and developed on Earth because it will have decreased phagocytic abilities from structural deformities caused by microgravity.
9. Viera, Florida
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
E-coli and endotoxin detection in microgravity via LAL-Horseshoe crab blood testing
Grade 7, Pinecrest Space Coast Academy, Brevard County Public Schools
Principal Investigator: Liam Hauser
Co-Investigators: Connor Santore, Eric Distasi, Evan Ireland, Luke Costa
Teacher Facilitator: Consuelo Praetorius
Pinecrest Academy Space Coast students Liam Hauser, Connor Santore, Eric Distasi, Evan Ireland, and Luke Costa optimizing experiment processes for E-coli and endotoxin detection in microgravity via LAL- Horseshoe crab blood testing for future flight with the SSEP.
Proposal Summary:
Think for a moment; how could horseshoe crab blood (Limulus polyphemus) save the lives of people in space? That is exactly what this experiment will investigate. The team’s experiment will test the bacterial ‘finding’ capabilities of the horseshoe crab blood, by using LAL (Limulus Amebocyte Lysate). LAL is a main component of the horseshoe crab immune system that fights bacterial infections in the crab. Our experiment will mix (LAL) and E.-coli in the FME tube in microgravity. The dried LAL and E-coli will both be placed into separate sealed sections of an FME experiment tube, with a clamp in between the two substances. Why is this group doing this you might ask? Their hypothesis is that microgravity will not affect the ability of LAL to react with E. coli in microgravity, and the bacterial killing activity of LAL will decrease the number of live E. coli in the FME. This can lead to advances in medicine on the Earth, as well as provide for improved health for Astronauts and colonizers in space. The LAL from -horseshoe crab blood, can be used to detect bacteria and act as possible early detection of diseases during space travel. It can also be utilized to detect bacteria and bacterial endotoxins on surgical equipment, prescription storage containers, and even human tissue samples. All of these reasons make this LAL-Horseshoe Crab Blood experiment an ideal candidate to be conducted in microgravity aboard the International Space Station for the SSEP program.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
The Effects of Microgravity on the Survival Rate of Phytoplankton
Grade 7, Pinecrest Space Coast Academy, Brevard County Public Schools
Principal Investigator: Gabriela Abousleman
Co-Investigators: Diego Bernhard, Jacob Dardon, Benoit D’herouville
Teacher Facilitator: Consuelo Praetorius
Proposal Summary:
In today’s world, humans plan on creating life in space. Not only life, but civilizations are also being planned for a future in outer space. But, to do that they need to have modified versions of life’s essentials: water, food, and shelter. This project concept revolves around creating an emergency food source for astronauts and future civilizations in space. But, before humanity can think big, we have to think small. To do this a question must be answered: how will microgravity affect phytoplankton? These microalgae live in the ocean and need some of the nutrients humans need for survival, but also give us humans oxygen. Suppose this phytoplankton can survive a diet change to a food source, NNS, (Noreve Nutrition Serum), which is made up of calcium, carbohydrates, fats, fiber, minerals, protein, & vitamins. Could humans do the same? When this experiment is launched into space and onto the International Space Station, the plankton will either eat it and live, or they won’t eat the serum and die. With the results of the experiments run on Earth and space a comparison can be made to view the effect of the serum on the phytoplankton. But, most importantly, when this experiment begins, it could be the difference between launching a future in space.
The Effects of Microgravity on Lactobacillus Acidophilus’ Growth
Grade 7, Pinecrest Space Coast Academy, Brevard County Public Schools
Principal Investigator: David Raguindin
Investigator: Savannah Nakamoto
Teacher Facilitator: Candee Peters
Proposal Summary:
Lactobacillus Acidophilus is an extremely important bacterium found in the digestive tract of human beings. These powerful little guys are part of the microbiome in our digestive system. They help break down our food and can affect our health and mood. Lactobacillus is also found in probiotics for people who have disease or take certain medications. In this sense, Lactobacillus Acidophilus has proven itself as a beneficial bacterium and should continue to be learned about. Furthermore, these important uses can also maintain the health of the crew and future colonies in the solar system. But even before people can use it in space, scientists must continue to research it in microgravity to see how it grows and changes. With past experiments on other bacteria showing that their behavior changes in microgravity and the usefulness of Lactobacillus A. a question arises: how will microgravity affect the growth of Lactobacillus Acidophilus when compared to Earth’s gravity? The projected outcome of this experiment is that the Lactobacillus Acidophilus will grow more in microgravity because it will not have restrictions on growth through gravity. The experiment to be conducted is simple and requires almost no interaction from the astronauts. One sample of these will stay on Earth and the other will go to the ISS. Both samples will grow for four weeks and then be compared through a Lactic Acid test for accuracy.
10. Jonesboro, Georgia
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Germination of Mentha spicata in microgravity
Grade 7, Mundy’s Mill Middle School, Clayton County Public Schools
Principal Investigator: Caleb Kenneth Walker
Co-Investigators: Anthony Justin Micheal Chin, Kevin Fernando Martinez-Bello
Teacher Facilitator: Heather Peterson
Student researchers from Mundy’s Mill Middle School working on the selected flight experiment, Germination of Mentha spicata in microgravity.
Proposal Summary:
This project is to see how spearmint, Mentha spicata, germinate in microgravity. Knowing if spearmint could germinate in microgravity would be useful for astronauts. Spearmint can be useful on the ISS because it can be used to treat digestive conditions, reduce swelling, boost antioxidant levels, and it contains other beneficial compounds to help lower blood sugar and balance hormones. When it is onboard the ISS, volume 1 will contain 3 mL of distilled water and volume 2 will contain 20 spearmint seeds. On the first interaction day, A=0, the seeds and water will be mixed and shaken for 10 seconds. The seeds will be left to germinate for the remaining time. Once the project returns to Earth, we will compare how the spearmint developed in microgravity conditions to how the spearmint developed on Earth. We will measure the stem and roots of the spearmint plants to determine germination.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
How does Microgravity Affect the Growth of Magnesium Sulfate Crystals?
Grade 7, Mundy’s Mill Middle School, Clayton County Public Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: Morgan Belser, Isabella Okona
Co-Investigators: Nadia Brown, Makayla Hazel, Egypt Mcghee, Zariah Spivey
Teacher Facilitator: Heather Peterson
Proposal Summary:
This investigation will examine the growth of Magnesium Sulfate crystals in space. This experiment will test whether or not crystals can grow, how large they will grow, and if they can maintain their physical and chemical properties. Magnesium Sulfate, commonly called Epsom salt, can help plants in a garden produce larger, more flavorful fruits and vegetables. With that in mind, this investigation will determine whether or not including salt crystals in future space gardens could help enhance plant growth and increase fruit production. It would be more
beneficial to grow this onboard so the Magnesium Sulfate can get to soil and plants in a timely manner. It would also help the environment as space travel creates gas emissions in the atmosphere. These carbon gas emissions contribute to further climate and health issues for the planet and its living organisms. While growing magnesium sulfate would be time-consuming and require adequate space, the benefits outweigh the costs. The ability to grow this resource on board would be great for everyone because of its many uses in food production.
The Effect of Vitamin C and Glycerin on the Epidermis in Microgravity
Grades 11-12, Martha Ellen Stilwell School Of The Arts, Clayton County Public Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: Naomi Haynes, Fernando Godin-Salazar
Teacher Facilitator: Rebecca Brown
Proposal Summary:
The investigation of the project is to look at effects of a vitamin C and glycerin serum on epithelial cells in a microgravity environment. The vitamin C and glycerin will be in the form of a Rejuvenating Facial Serum produced by Natural Chemist Company. Astronauts tend to suffer from many skin conditions such as erythematous and dry, and flaking skin when they come back from space, due to the conditions of the environment and a limit on the amount of water they are able to bring with them. This makes them prone to cuts, bruises, and infections upon their return
to Earth. Since they have limited sources of hydration while in space, skin care is difficult to maintain. Finding a topical solution that serves to rehydrate the harsh treatment of their skin will aid in keeping these important individuals healthy and comfortable.
11. Grayslake, Illinois
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
The Effects of Microgravity on Cholesterol Lowering Activity by Lactobacillus acidophilus
Grade 14, College of Lake County
Principal Investigator: Samuel Banuelos Barrios
Teacher Facilitator: Beth Wilson
Preparation of Cholesterol and LRMS Broth Solution.
Proposal Summary:
Lactobacillus acidophilus is a probiotic bacterium that can be found in the human mouth and intestines. This bacterium is classified as beneficial due to its effectiveness at preventing issues with digestion and diarrhea that result from antibiotic treatments. Several bacterial strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus have been shown to be able to assimilate and uptake cholesterol in a laboratory setting. The uptake and assimilation of cholesterol by L. acidophilus may be useful as a therapeutic approach for lowering cholesterol levels in humans. High levels of cholesterol are a contributing factor to cardiovascular disease which is the leading cause of death in the Western world. There are several cholesterol lowering drugs prescribed for patients that are at high risk for cardiovascular disease. The most widely prescribed cholesterol lowering drugs include statins and PCSK9 inhibitors. While these drugs have demonstrated efficacy towards lowering cholesterol levels in patients, they often have undesirable side effects. The potential adverse effects of statins include musculoskeletal symptoms, increased risk for diabetes, and strokes, while PCSK9 inhibitors side effects include muscle aches, infections, and fevers. Therefore, alternative cholesterol lowering treatments with fewer side effects are warranted. It has been demonstrated that several strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus are able to lower cholesterol levels in vitro. In addition, experiments done in simulated microgravity have provided insight into the mechanism for how Lactobacillus acidophilus expresses the genes involved in the metabolism of cholesterol. In this investigation, in vitro cholesterol lowering activity by Lactobacillus acidophilus in a microgravity environment will be studied.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
The Effect of Aspirin in Preventing Blood Clots in Microgravity: A Comparison Study
Grades 14 and 16, College of Lake County
Co-Principal Investigators: Rachel Buenaobra, Mehwish Khan
Teacher Facilitators: Jeanine E. Seitz and Dr. Cynthia Trombino
Proposal Summary:
Recent research indicates there is an increased risk for clot formation in microgravity; however, the basis for that increased risk is yet unknown. The results of the research are inconsistent. One study found that microgravity increases the risk for hemorrhagic disease while others concluded the opposite. Newer research has shown that slowed/reversed venous flow is more likely to occur and can lead to a potentially fatal thrombus. The existing literature regarding blood coagulation in microgravity raises concern. Both trends in the literature display a need for further investigation into blood coagulation and its relationship with microgravity. This flight experiment proposal for Mission 17 to the International Space Station (ISS) will aid in filling these existing gaps in the literature and provide more information about preventing clots. As aspirin is a practical and widely-accessible treatment to prevent blood clots, the proposed experiment will give better insight into whether or not aspirin is an effective option in addressing this issue through a comparison study. The amount of coagulation that occurs under the influence of aspirin in the presence of microgravity and gravity will be separately studied and compared.
With this knowledge, it can be deduced whether aspirin is reliable for preventing clots. Blood clots are common, but serious, occurrences and can be the framework for much more complicated disease pathways; if it has proven to be more likely in healthy astronauts who are pre-screened before missions, and it has, then it is absolutely essential that further study is conducted.
Evaluating the usefulness of A. hortensis var. rubra as a potential food source and phytoremediation tool for long-term spaceflight applications
Grade 14, College of Lake County
Co-Principal Investigators: Finn Repp, Torriea Kirk
Teacher Facilitator: Dr. John Zahina-Ramos
Proposal Summary:
The proposed experiment will test if Atriplex hortensis var. rubra is capable of growing in microgravity while under additional environmental stress. This plant was chosen because it is edible, and provides high nutritional value while being a good candidate for growing in limited space. Additionally, it is a halophyte, and has the ability to remove salt and heavy metals from soil. As such, A. hortensis may function as a phytoremediation tool, and has been tested for this purpose in roadside environments. These characteristics could make this plant useful for future space-travel-related applications. To determine its suitability for these purposes while in space, it must first be determined if A. hortensis will readily grow in microgravity, particularly in a saline environment. It is hypothesized that A. hortensis seeds treated with a NaCl-enriched nutrient solution will have less biomass when germinated under weightlessness conditions, as compared to A. hortensis seeds grown in a similar environment on Earth, due to the additional abiotic stressors present in space. This experiment will grow A. hortensis seeds in a three-chambered “mini-lab” that contains a growth solution and a biological fixative. It will be placed aboard the International Space Station (ISS) via Mission 17. While aboard ISS, the nutrient solution will be introduced to the seeds. After 4-6 weeks of growth, the fixative will be released. The mini-lab will then be compared with a control on Earth, to determine differences in biomass produced.
12. Lake Charles, Louisiana
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Growth of Spirulina in Microgravity
Grade 8, F.K. White Middle School, Calcasieu Parish School Board
Principal Investigator: Sam Dondapati
Teacher Facilitator: Sandra Hayes
Sam Dondapati adding Phosphoric Acid to the nutrient solution for his project “Growth of Spirulina in Microgravity”.
Proposal Summary:
The experiment will see the effect on “Growth of Spirulina in microgravity.’ The hypothesis for this experiment is the growth will be higher compared to the growth on earth due to lack of stress from the environment. Astronauts can consume Spirulina for their daily needs of vitamins and proteins in the space station. Spirulina is a blue-green algae from the genus Arthrospira (“arthro” roughly meaning “joint,” and “spira” meaning “spiral”). Spirulina is a reliable source of several nutrients, including fat-soluble vitamins (A, E, and K), fatty acids (DHA, EPA), beta carotene, and minerals. It is also a source of protein. it also helps in increasing antioxidant capacity, lowers the blood pressure, controls the blood sugar, lowers the bad cholesterol, and increases the good cholesterol, reduces the metabolic syndrome, helps to improve mental health, and reduces obesity (Verywell Health, 2022). Spirulina can cause allergy for those who are allergic to algae.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
Strawberry Seed Germination
Grade 6, S.J. Welsh Middle School, Calcasieu Parish School Board
Co-Principal Investigators: Madisyn Blanco, Andrew Trahan
Teacher Facilitator: Dana Istre
Proposal Summary:
The team is trying to see if exposure to microgravity affects the strawberries’ germination rate. The team will do this by sending strawberry seeds into space. The reason the team will be sending this project is because strawberries can provide things like minerals and fibers. They also can provide things like antioxidants, which can prevent heart problems. Lastly, strawberries can boost your immune system.
The Effect of Microgravity on Zooplankton
Grades 6-7, F.K White Middle School, Calcasieu Parish School Board
Co-Principal Investigators: Coy Browning, Matthew Devall
Investigator: Sanhith Pappireddy
Teacher Facilitator: Sandra Hayes
Proposal Summary:
In this proposal, we will send zooplankton eggs to the International Space Station, and they will be exposed to microgravity in the mix stick. The investigation will involve a group of zooplankton eggs here on Earth as well. When the mix stick from the ISS returns to Earth with the eggs, the growth rate of the zooplankton will be compared to that of the eggs that remained on Earth after they both hatch. The testing will not require the astronauts to interact with the mix stick. This experiment will benefit space research because it could show how different types of organisms and life forms could live and grow when exposed to microgravity. This is important because zooplankton is a food source for many organisms such as people and sea creatures. Zooplankton is also a key animal in many ecosystems.
13. University System of Maryland, Maryland
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
The Effect of Microgravity on Telomerase Activity and Efficiency in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Grade 16, University of Maryland, College Park
Co-Principal Investigators: Arthi Ramkumar, Jessica McClelland, Korina Vlahos, Sara Dawood, Shan Dawood
Teacher Facilitator: Daniel Enrique Serrano
Students working to optimize the materials and volumes for testing the impact of microgravity on Saccharomyces cerevisiae gene expression in microgravity.
Proposal Summary:
Space exploration is expanding to more prolonged journeys and destinations beyond the moon.cTherefore, understanding how microgravity conditions impact the biochemical process that contributes to aging and chronic conditions like cancer is imperative, specifically pertaining to the functionality of telomerase. The purpose of this study is to determine how telomerase activity and efficiency is impacted by the exposure of microgravity. This investigation will use the yeast model Saccharomyces cerevisiae to quantify the function of telomerase by measuring the telomerecextensions and mRNA telomerase expression levels in Saccharomyces cerevisiae before and after the experimental groups return to earth. We will additionally host a control group experiment on Earth. The results of this investigation can contribute to improving the fitness of astronauts. Understanding how microgravity impacts telomerase function is integral to understanding how humans age in space, as well as to obtaining insight as to how disorders related to cell division like cancer are impacted and treated.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
The effect of microgravity on the Germination of Chia Seeds
Grade 10, DuVal High School, Price George’s County Public Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: waiting for permission
Teacher Facilitator: Jason Hipkins
Proposal Summary:
Plants thrive on earth and give humans benefits such as helping clean air and water. Space flight, like the ISS and this experiment, will evaluate the effect that microgravity has on plant growth of the Chia (Salvia hispanica) plant, specifically at the seed germination stage. Being able to grow plants in space and collecting controls on how plants grow on earth can give astronauts in space the same benefit plants give to humans on earth. Furthermore, this experiment will show the effects microgravity has on chia plants like the root orientation, cell wall structure, and cell caps. Moreover, showing this effect will open up knowledge to chia growth in the space station compared to other plants that have been experimented on in the microgravity environment. The growth of the plants in the microgravity environment will not only give astronauts the nutrients they need in space but will also help to identify more plants to cultivate. The purpose of this experiment is not only to identify and evaluate the effect that microgravity has on chia seed growth but to determine how the chia seeds behave in the microgravity environment such as the mucilage levels. Chia seeds are cheap to purchase and doing this experiment will not require spending too much money. They can store energy just like on earth that astronauts need when going to space. There is not a lot of water required for the growth of chia seeds. Therefore, doing this experiment will be inexpensive.
The Effects of Microgravity on Fermentation of Yeast and Ethanol Yield: A Key to a More Sustainable Future
Grades 14 and 16, University of Maryland, College Park
Co-Principal Investigators: Raed Ahmed, Sophia Hu, Maruko Kogure
Teacher Facilitators: Ilya Semenov and Daniel Serrano
Proposal Summary:
Space exploration involves operating in resource scarce environments and requires sustainable processes that produce varieties of products. One response to sustainability arises from a surprisingly primal reaction called fermentation. Initially used to create alcoholic drinks, fermentation has become a versatile process used to create complex products from antibiotics to fuels for energy generation. With the optimization of these processes in off-planet conditions, the door to sustainable chemicals opens. Ethanol is one versatile product of fermentation used
for disinfectants, fuels, and consumption with potential yet to be explored. This experiment investigates the effect of catalyst potential hydrogen content (pH) in microgravity for the fermentation of yeast and ethanol yield. On Earth, decreasing pH catalysts have been shown to increase yield, however this has not been tested in micro gravitational conditions yet. Previous tests involving S. cerevisiae in micro gravitational conditions had been performed and indicated substantial accelerated growth within the exponential phases of growth, upwards to nearly 60%. This experiment acts as a growth reference in neutral pH conditions while the current experiment aims to compare these results with the addition of an acidic catalyst. This experiment aims to test the effectiveness of Acetic Acid, a stronger acid substance of pH 3.87 (at 0.001M) , on the fermentation yield of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in 35 hours. Identical tests would take place on Earth with the catalyst to isolate the effects of microgravity as a baseline. Optimizing pH could maximize product yield while minimizing reactor area, revolutionizing space sufficiency.
14. Westland, Michigan
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Mushroom Germination in Microgravity
Grade 5, Walker-Winter Elementary School, Wayne-Westland Community School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Bailey Needham, Michaela DeVries
Co-Investigators: Bassam Qaqish, Brayden Albright, Devid Zace, Kinnidy Jones
Teacher Facilitator: Michael Hall
Fifth grade student researchers from Walker-Winter Elementary School work on optimizing their mushroom cultivation experiment for flight.
Proposal Summary:
If mushrooms can germinate in a microgravity environment, then future space explorers could benefit greatly. We will be germinating Lion’s Mane mushrooms because they have many benefits, not just for a person’s health, but for the environment as well. Some health benefits include lowering risks of cancer caused by space radiation, boosting the human immune system, and protection from mental disease. Mushrooms also can help terraform planets and be made
into biofuels. We want to see if Lion’s Mane spores will germinate in a microgravity environment. To do this, we will assemble a mini-lab and have an astronaut follow our experimental procedure aboard the ISS while we conduct the same experiment in the classroom on the ground. The mini-lab will be returned to us so we can determine if mushroom spores germinated in a microgravity environment.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
Microgravity’s Effects on Gibberellic Acid
Grade 12, John Glenn High School, Wayne-Westland Community School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Alana Gildersleeve, McKenzie Flaherty, Kory Johnson, Marissa Neubecker
Teacher Facilitator: Linda Willman
Proposal Summary:
Agriculture is the main contributor to most of the world’s sources of food. Today, scientists are researching effective methods to cope with agricultural issues such as climate change and the loss of biodiversity. This proposal will test the effects of gibberellic acid on dwarf pea seeds in space. The goal of this experiment is to speed up seed development to provide the ISS with food that is nutritional and sustainable in space. Gibberellic acid is a natural plant hormone that stimulates seed germination and development. The acid also promotes dwarf
plants to grow to the size of their full sized counterparts. From the definition of gibberellic acid and the effect it has on seed growth on Earth, it could be inferred that the dwarf peas will germinate at a rapid pace.
The Germination of Radishes in a Microgravity Environment
Grades 10 and 12, John Glenn High School, Wayne-Westland Community School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Asha Hill, Blessing Nosike
Co-Investigators: Kiyah Hodgins, Sakkarra Henley
Teacher Facilitator: Linda Willman
Proposal Summary:
The main question proposed for this experiment was whether or not Cherry Belle radishes can germinate in a microgravity environment. Cherry Belle radishes can provide astronauts with plenty of nutrients and vitamins, and grow in an average of 3-4 weeks. This can be very beneficial for astronauts to grow in space for quick use of food, and can be done simply. If Cherry Belle radishes are able to germinate in space, the second question posed for this
experiment was to see if there were any biological or time-differing effects. Using measurements and data collected from the experiment, both experiments will be compared to see if the overall experiment proves effective.
15. Edina, Minnesota
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Bean Root Growth in Microgravity
Grades 10 and 12, Edina High School, Edina Public Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: Joshua Cram, Grayson Irons, Colin Shaw
Teacher Facilitators: Jodi Ramirez and Shannon Seaver
Edina High School seniors Josh Cram and Colin Shaw, along with sophomore Grayson Irons, work together to create a seed holder device meant to minimize vibrations and guide roots of growing bean plants while aboard the ISS.
Proposal Summary:
In this experiment, 2 mung beans will be germinated on the ISS and their root growth will be compared to identical plants grown on Earth to see the effects of zero gravity and a lack of light. Because the main factors of plant root growth are gravitropism (gravity) and phototropism (light), it would be interesting to see how plants grow without either of those factors. The hypothesis for this experiment is that other factors, such as hydrotropism (water) and thigmotropism (growth around obstacles), will have more of an effect than usual, as well as the orientation of the beans. This experiment will help people learn more about how plants grow in a zero-gravity environment.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
Effect of Microgravity on Cell-Free Gene Expression Systems and Uses for Heavy Metal Detection
Grade 11, Edina High School, Edina Public Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: Derrick Siu, Jimmy Vu, Stephen Kanti Mahanty
Teacher Facilitators: Jodi Ramirez and Shannon Seaver
Proposal Summary:
As plans for extended spaceflight become increasingly common, addressing the sustainability of space missions has become essential. NASA has awarded SpaceX and Orbital ATK a total of 31 resupply missions to the ISS worth $5.9 billion, around $191.3 million per mission, and up to $57,000 per pound for cargo [NASA inspector general, 2018]: a figure that has only increased in recent years. Finding ways to lower resupply costs has become critical to the success of future missions. We propose that Cell-Free Gene Expression (CFGE) is a feasible solution to this problem. Nearly all processes for biological life are executed by proteins, emphasizing the need for accessible and inexpensive reagents that can induce protein expression for various uses during extended spaceflight. Cell-Free Gene Expression fits all these criteria, allowing the ability to find the specific protein given a plasmid or linear DNA template as drivers for protein expression. These proteins can then be used as functional peptides, enzymes, or bacteriophages, which are catalysts for any study of natural sciences like specialized medicine production, biosensor production for use in carbohydrate/sugar detection, or heavy metal detection in new water sources from different planets. CFGE yields a quicker and cheaper protein synthesis compared to traditional laboratory settings, reducing barriers to conducting biological studies in microgravity. This experiment will provide information on the viability of these CFGE systems and, assuming a true null hypothesis, become a catalyst for future studies’ ability to analyze biological life in space.
Microgravity’s Effect on the Growth of Cultured Meat From Stem Cells
Grade 8, South View Middle School, Edina Public Schools
Principal Investigator: Katherine LeSourd
Collaborators: Melissa Castellanos, Najma Mukhtar
Teacher Facilitator: Marina Lundell
Proposal Summary:
The experiment being proposed is to grow mouse stem cells in microgravity on the ISS, as a representation of the growth of cultured meat in space. Cultured meat will be a very useful resource for extended missions. Having the ability to grow their own meat in space, rather than transporting it from Earth, would be a big saving in weight and cost. And variety is important to an astronaut’s mental health and happiness.
16. Las Vegas, Nevada
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Wolffia in Microgravity
Grade 8, Pinecrest Academy of Nevada, St. Rose Campus
Principal Investigator: Ezrah Maie Cortez
Co-Investigators: Baylee Jones, Elyse Garrett, Sofia Camacho
Teacher Facilitator: Mariah Schwenn
Pinecrest St. Rose students working with Wolffia seeds to test the growth rate in microgravity.
Proposal Summary:
Seeing as astronauts need a substantial food source in microgravity, the focus question for this experiment is “Will Wolffia (duckweed) grow in microgravity? If so, what is the duplication rate?” Duckweeds are small floating plants that thrive in nutrient rich water. This is the fastest growing plant in the world and can be grown in large quantities. Wolffia plants can be used as a beneficial human food because of the high nutritional value. Not only is it used for food, it can help purify wastewater and potentially be used for medicinal purposes including as an antibacterial agent, and for improved immune function, and digestion in humans. In this experiment, duckweed (Wolffia) will be used. The mini-lab required for this experiment is Type 3. The dependent variable for this experiment is the length of time for Wolffia to grow. Wolffia will be mixed with a water and plant food mixture in order to determine the growth and multiplication rate of the plant. The space experiment and ground experiment will be performed at different times. The ground experiment will be done after the launch. Once the space lab experiment is returned to Earth, it will be analyzed and compared to the ground experiment to determine how microgravity affected the Wolffia plant, in terms of duplication and growth.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
Growth Rate of Mold on Cheddar Cheese in Microgravity
Grade 8, Pinecrest Academy of Nevada, St. Rose Campus
Principal Investigator: Lily Baker
Co-Investigators: Christine Beishir, Paige Cairy, Gavin King, Ammar Peerzada
Teacher Facilitator: Mariah Schwenn
Proposal Summary:
The focus question for this experiment is “Can cheddar cheese produce mold in microgravity the same as it does on Earth?” Well, what do the experts have to say? “Given the aminogenic potential of microorganisms, it’s crucial to know the composition of the cheese microbiota and the possible relationship between microbial activity and the formation of amines in them.” The focus question was chosen because food has never been tested in microgravity for mold growth. So, sending cheese into microgravity to test mold growth would impact our understanding of food stability in space. This research benefits the future of humanity and space exploration by helping humans gain more possible information on how cheese could provide a sustainable food source in microgravity. The research conducted in the experiment could open new doors for so much research – the possibilities are endless! This experiment is being conducted to see if cheddar cheese can produce mold in microgravity. The Type III mini-lab will be used for this experiment. The dependent variable for this experiment is mold growth, which will be measured after being mixed with the fungus to see if mold is produced. The space experiment is in microgravity, but a ground experiment will also be conducted. Later, the ground experiment will be compared to the space experiment to determine how microgravity affected cheddar cheese and its mold growth on Earth and in space.
Plasma Clotting in Microgravity
Grade 5, Pinecrest Academy of Nevada, St. Rose Campus
Co-Principal Investigators: Josie Aytes, Gianna Barbine, Cami Bigler, Ryan Moreau
Teacher Facilitator: Sabrina Cammiss
Proposal Summary:
The circulatory system allows blood to travel throughout the body so that organs can complete their specific functions. When physical movement is limited, as it is for an astronaut in space, circulation is restricted and the chance of a blood clot forming increases. The purpose of this study is to investigate properties of blood clots formed in a microgravity environment and the dangers they create for astronauts spending more time in weightlessness as space exploration advances. The Plasma Clotting in Microgravity experiment answers the question, if a blood clot is formed in a microgravity environment, will it have less mass and less density than a blood clot
that is developed with gravity on Earth. Results of less mass and density of a blood clot indicates a possibility that a clot will break apart under the blood flow more easily, increasing the risks of thromboembolism for astronauts in space, without immediate medical care. This topic is already a major concern for humans as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition that kills nearly 100,000 Americans per year. Additionally, current studies by NASA
demonstrate the increased possibility of DVT being developed in a microgravity environment as bodily fluids swell in the neck and face area. This discovery shows that astronauts are in greater danger as they spend longer amounts of time in space exploration. This will impact the quality of human life in a microgravity environment for the future, as well as to improve the understanding of blood clotting and thrombosis.
17. Camden, New Jersey
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Mold Growth in Microgravity: A evaluation on the spread of fungi in microgravity conditions
Grade 5, Camden’s Promise Charter School
Co-Principal Investigators: Sahara Miller, Sianny Lee, Inari Toledo
Teacher Facilitators: Christopher Hernandez and Marquise Grant
Inari Toledo (left), Sahara Miller (middle), and Siany Lee (right) analyzing the results of their experiment as they try to understand how microgravity effects mold growth.
Proposal Summary:
Fruit is essential on Earth, what about in space? With the lack of gravity, is it possible to have sustainable food? These two questions have led to the focus of this experiment: to test pieces of an apple in microgravity and see if it grows molds. Mold is a natural occurrence that is able to spread rapidly on Earth. However, the conditions in which mold can grow in space are different due to microgravity. Mold in microgravity conditions seems to have a different affect compared to mold here on Earth. The focus of the project is to study the effect of microgravity on fruit decomposition. The purpose of the project is to examine mold in microgravity. The study is important because there is mold in the International Space Station. By studying the growth and rate of spread in bacteria, it is possible to prevent the spread of mold in microgravity conditions. We are testing mold to see if fruits decompose faster or slower than they would on Earth.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
Oobleck in Microgravity!
Grade 8, Camden’s Promise Charter School
Co-Principal Investigators: Jayla Ernest, Rianna Quann, Analia Vargas
Teacher Facilitator: Samuel Harrison
Proposal Summary:
Our experiment will find out if Oobleck will keep the properties of a non-newtonian fluid in normal gravity, if it was originally created in a microgravity environment. According to Non-Newtonian Fluid (2010), “Non-Newtonian fluids change their viscosity or flow behavior under stress.” Oobleck is a fluid that can act like a solid in some situations and can act like a liquid in other situations. When you add physical pressure to Oobleck, it instantly
reacts as if it was a solid, but when you release the pressure, it acts like a liquid again, taking the shape of its container. Would it react differently if the Oobleck was created in space and then returned to normal gravity? Oobleck is being researched for practical applications, such as protective clothing for police and soldiers, due to its ability to rapidly switch from a liquid to a solid. Another application, according to Surprising Uses for Oobleck (2018), “The application provides a system of temporarily fixing potholes by filling them with bags of Oobleck (or other non-Newtonian fluids).” These and other applications may be useful in future NASA projects, but only if we determine that Oobleck will retain its properties when made in microgravity.
The Effect of Microgravity on the Resurrection of Water Bears
Grade 8, Camden’s Promise Charter School
Co-Principal Investigators: Sabrina Loyola, Yesic Restituyo, Daralize Darce, Nailea Obando
Teacher Facilitator: Dr. Conway
Proposal Summary:
It’s essential to send single cell items to space. It’s important to do such a thing because sending things into space serves as a way of research. If we were to send a water bear and water into space, it would show us whether they can be revived and if they can withstand the pressure of space travel. In this experiment we test just that. We take a tardigrade known as a water bear that is dried out. We send this into space in a vial. It is then mixed with water to see if it will revive. Similarly, this is done on Earth to compare results. If the revival in space is possible it opens up huge possibilities. This is why we must test if a water bear can be revived in space. This proposal accurately explains the water bear project.
18. Springfield, New Jersey
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
The Effect of Microgravity on Gray Mold
Grade 7, Florence M. Gaudineer Middle School, Springfield Public Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: Sharlyn Dubey, Avital Kandel, Aria-Rose Molinelli, Taylor Tripet, Isabella Zabinski
Teacher Facilitator: Alison Gillen
Isabella Zabinski, Sharlyn Dubey, Aria Molinelli, Avital Kandel, and Taylor Tripet prepare strawberries to send to the International Space Station.
Proposal Summary:
Strawberries are a nice flavorful fruit, but when mold grows on these strawberries, they’re ruined. The mold that grows on strawberries is Botrytis cinema (Gray or White mold). At the time they are picked, strawberries usually mold in about 14 days (2 weeks). The mold consumes about 65% of the strawberries. Once this mold has sprouted on one strawberry it can easily spread from one strawberry to another. We are using dehydrated strawberries to control when they will mold. When the strawberries are getting transported to the I.S.S, they won’t be hydrated yet. The astronaut’s will unclamp the tube and let the water soak into the strawberries. Once this happens, the water will rehydrate the strawberries instantly. Down on earth, the strawberries took 13-14 days to mold. In space, we believe it will take a shorter period of time for the strawberries to mold.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
Corrosion of Aluminum in Microgravity
Grade 11, Jonathan Dayton High School, Springfield Public Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: Zac Potito, Kyle Rosentsock, Ryan Schultz, Kate Sousa
Teacher Facilitator: David Silva
Proposal Summary:
The experiment being conducted will address the question on whether microgravity affects the process of corrosion. The process of corrosion is caused when aluminum and water are combined along with the presence of oxygen. With aluminum being the most commonly used metal on spacecrafts, it is imperative to know how it reacts in certain reactions. The piece of aluminum could come with an excess, or smaller amount of corrosion. If the metal comes back with more corrosion, then slight concerns could rise about the effectiveness of aluminum as the main material used in spacecraft. If the experiment comes back with less corrosion on the aluminum, this would open the door to many possibilities. This experiment is used to test how oxygen reacts in certain reactions. There are many reactions on Earth in which we know how they react, but are unaware of how they erect in microgravity. The answer to this question can help change our perception of oxygens’ effect on reactions in microgravity and if there are downsides to using aluminum on spacecrafts. The investigation will allow further details about how different substances combine to form corrosion in microgravity, and whether or not there should be concerns about the abundance of aluminum used in spacecraft. Not only this, the knowledge of the effects microgravity has on aluminum and other metals can help scientists grasp a better understanding of the impact and effect microgravity has.
How Microgravity affects Radish Growth in Iron Rich Soil
Grade 7, Florence M. Gaudineer Middle School, Springfield Public Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: Liam Grote, Mark Mukalel, Natasha Perianayagam, Nia Sharif
Teacher Facilitator: Alison Gillen
Proposal Summary:
The experiment proposal is to send a soil- and plant-based experiment to the ISS. The experiment’s goal is to observe how radishes would grow in an environment with less gravity than they are accustomed to, and how iron-rich soil could affect their growth. The results of the experiment would answer the question, “Can plants survive in soil types with high iron content?” The decision to use iron-rich soil is based on scientists’ new-found interest in future Mars colonization. Our opening research states that Martian regolith is very iron-rich; so Earth’s soil
mixed with liquid iron would most likely imitate its conditions. Therefore, the experiment was created in the hope of furthering the knowledge currently held about the effects of iron-rich soil usage in plants. The study tries to discover the differences between earthly soil, and Martian regolith through simulation. The group has used soil laced with iron. From the results of this experiment, the team hopes to find the effects of both kinds of soil on a radish seed’s growth. The results will expand current understanding of the effects of different soil types on plant
growth.
19. Albany, New York
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
The effects of microgravity on Oryza sativa (rice)
Grade 8, Hackett Middle School, Albany City School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Everett Mercier, Sadeer Othman, David Stefano Rosales, Yomar Santiago, John Thang
Teacher Facilitator: Craig Ascher
The team exploring the mini-lab, as they discuss appropriate sample volumes to load into each chamber.
Proposal Summary:
The investigators hope to find out how Oryza sativa will grow and mature in microgravity. The investigators also hope to find how fast Oryza sativa takes to germinate, and how differently the roots and stems of the Oryza sativa plant will grow in space compared to if it was grown on Earth. Here are three things the investigators learned while they researched their topic. Finally, the investigator learned that under microgravity conditions guttation (a type of pressure release for plants) is enhanced and Oryza sativa grows and germinates faster. The investigator hypothesizes that Oryza sativa will become slightly more nutritious and will grow better in microgravity. To conduct this experiment, the investigators would place Oryza sativa seeds into a nutrient-rich liquid or flooded soil so that the Oryza sativa would grow with the soil. The investigators can do this because Oryza sativa is grown in an extremely moist environment. On Earth, the investigators would plant Oryza sativa in the normal traditional way with flooded soil. It would be beneficial to learn how microgravity impacts the subject of our experiment because the investigators’ results could vary depending on whether microgravity affects the subject positively or negatively and if it will be different compared to the research done on Earth and in the past. It would also be beneficial because we would be able to obtain more accurate results.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
How does gravity affect the germination rate in dragon fruit seeds?
Grade 8, Hackett Middle School, Albany City School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Amiah Chimilio, Angelina Guallpa Caguana, Yasmine Hotek, Taraji McKenzie, Laura Rah
Teacher Facilitator: Craig Ascher
Proposal Summary:
The experiment’s goal is to find out if microgravity affects the germination rate of dragon fruit positively, increasing its speed in growth. If dragon fruit seeds are planted in space, then it will have a faster germination rate than on Earth. In the test tube, volume 1 is going to be 4 mL of it filled with loam soil with 5 dragon fruit seeds submerged 3 ml into the loam soil, put a clamp above the top of the loam soil. Volume 2 will be filled with 3 ml of water. Volume 3 will be 3 ml filled with salt and vinegar. It would be beneficial to learn about how microgravity affects the germination rate in dragon fruit seeds. This will help fruit production in space. If the germination rate does do better in space rather than on earth, dragon fruit would be taken in by astronauts on
long term missions since they have loads of nutrients and would keep astronauts’ immune systems strong.
How does microgravity affect the growth of mushrooms in a compost medium?
Grade 8, Hackett Middle School, Albany City School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Nafiza Ilma, Jack Jimenez-Livent, Alina Mujic, Kyleigh Stumon, Dea Zerka
Teacher Facilitator: Craig Ascher
Proposal Summary:
The main goal of the experiment is to find out how microgravity affects the growth of mushrooms when decomposing in space. It would show how much the mushrooms would grow in space compared to the mushrooms on Earth. Using compost will help grow the mushrooms without light because it has more nutrients and it’s organic. Mushrooms produce vitamin D. Chemical nature of compost and mushroom growth breaks down as the mushrooms are forming. This changes the compositional growth cycle of the mushrooms. The hypothesis for this experiment is that the microgravity will slow down the growth of the mushroom during its germination as it develops with the composted soil. On Earth, the plant is a mushroom with composted soil (apples and bananas). It would be watered and on the last day the data will be collected in cm of how much the mushrooms grew. On the ISS, the astronauts would plant the mushrooms with the same exact measurements and water it the same days the group watered it on Earth. Lastly, it will be shown with all of the differences that microgravity has affected the growth of mushrooms as it thrives with the composted soil.
Learning about the effect of microgravity on mushrooms would be very beneficial because it would help with food scarcity. This will work more efficiently with everyone’s use of time and getting their supply of mushrooms on a faster pan of time. At the end of this experiment it will show if you can get more mushrooms in a short period of time in space.
20. Brooklyn, New York – BSEA
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
The effects of microgravity on the germination of radish seeds
Grade 6, Brooklyn Science & Engineering Academy, District 18
Co-Principal Investigators: Tristan Cole, Rundell Swan
Teacher Facilitator: Minica McGarrell
Rundell Swan & Tristan Cole preparing their germination experiment, “What are the effects of microgravity on the germination of raphanus sativus (radish seeds)”.
Proposal Summary:
This team would like to find out the effects of microgravity on the germination of raphanus sativus (radish seeds). In the presence of gravity on Earth, the force of gravity pulls roots downward which allows the nutrients and water to be easily transported to the stem and leaves of the plant. The team would like to investigate how the roots would grow during germination if gravity was changed. Radishes were selected for this experiment because this plant germinated very quickly compared to other seeds. According to resources from the Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG) “farmers and gardeners commonly plant radishes. They’re easy to raise because they grow fast and are usually ready to harvest within eight weeks of planting.” If radishes are able to produce healthy plants in the presence of microgravity, it can be a good source of water and hydration for astronauts, considering that “radishes contain mostly water”. In this experiment radish seeds will be sent to space where water would initiate the germination process. The experiment will then be stopped before returning to Earth. When the experiment is returned to Earth the seeds that germinated will be compared to the control group grown on Earth. This experiment will provide data on the effects of germination on Raphanus Sativus (radish seeds) and the overall growth of the plant and its ability to germinate a healthy radish plant.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALIST:
The Effects of Microgravity on Germination of Thyme Seeds
Grade 7, Brooklyn Science & Engineering Academy, District 18
Co-Principal Investigators: Charles Kamylah, Tristianne Kellar
Investigator: Brielle Mills
Collaborator: Hayden Borde
Teacher Facilitator: Michelle Jennings
Proposal Summary:
After doing research at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, students on this team decided to focus their investigation on the germination of thyme (Coridothymus capitatus) seeds in microgravity. This herb is a good source of vitamin C for good immune support. Thyme also provides manganese for bone development and prevention of blood clotting that happens to some astronauts in space. According to science.nasa.gov this happens because “in the absence of gravity, body fluids shift from the legs to the upper body and the head. This shift affects the flow of blood through the vessels in the head”. The benefits of thyme can help astronauts and researchers maintain good health in a microgravity environment. If thyme seeds can germinate at the space station then they can grow in space. More manganese can be provided to astronauts to help with bone development, in missions that are six months or longer. Thyme also adds flavor to food and can be used to enhance the flavor of foods eaten by astronauts. The goal of this experiment is to see if thyme seeds will germinate in microgravity the same way they do on Earth. When the experiment returns to Earth the team will compare the structures of the seeds that germinated. The team will look at the roots, stem (epicotyl) and first leaves to see if the seeds that germinated in microgravity were different structurally. The team will be planting some of the seeds that germinated in microgravity on Earth, to see if they will grow when introduced to gravity.
21. Buffalo/Niagara, New York
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
The Effect of Microgravity on the Germination of Chamomile Seeds
Grade 5, Wellsville Elementary School, Wellsville Central School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Zia Muska, Maggie Viglietta
Co-Investigators: Adeline Brubaker, Samuel Green
Teacher Facilitators: Stephanie Viglietta and Dan Allen
Flight Team refining their experiment for flight – working on how much liquid nutrient to add to the FME for their chamomile seeds to germinate.
Proposal Summary:
In this experiment, we are trying to send German chamomile seeds up to space to see if they germinate and to test the effect of microgravity on the germination rates. The reason for our experiment is that astronauts could experience stress in space. Chamomile has many benefits like, improving heart health, supporting bone health, relieving menstrual pain and calming anxiety. Also, matured chamomile is called chamomile calming tea and is known to help with sleep. We are using three different variables in our attempt to germinate chamomile including: in the dark, indirect and direct sunlight. We are trying to do the experiment with three different variables because we are not sure of the exact conditions the scientists have to grow it in space. It will also allow us to make further advancement in our understanding of modern technology, gardening and the microgravity environment.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTs:
The Germination of Chinese Cabbage seeds in Microgravity
Grade 5, Wellsville Elementary School, Wellsville Central School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Benji Bond, Hunter Kellogg
Co-Investigators: Sebastian Carter, Kayne Mattison
Teacher Facilitators: Stephanie Viglietta and Dan Allen
Proposal Summary:
We want to see if Chinese cabbage will germinate in microgravity, and will grow in space. We want to help give astronauts a healthy vegetable that’s full of vitamins and can help with bone density. Dark leafy greens such as Chinese cabbage are best for bone density. You lose 1% bone density every month in microgravity. Eating Chinese
cabbage can help astronauts stay stronger in microgravity and space. We have noticed that the cabbage does not germinate very fast in the dark but in light it germinates a bit quicker. We want to see if it will germinate and if it does we can test it in microgravity. In order for the astronauts to have healthy bones in space, they could eat the cabbage they grow.
Immune Response in Microgravity
Grade 11, Olean Senior High School, Olean City School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Tyler Camp, Alex Linderman, Jalethyn Miller, Isaac Moses, Ethan Peace
Teacher Facilitator: Laura Kopec
Proposal Summary:
This research proposal was designed to assess the effects of the immune response in microgravity compared to the immune response on Earth. The “immune response” in this scenario is how the white blood cells combat the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. The reason for this experiment is to further develop the research of white blood cells and their response with pathogenic material within microgravity. We are using S. aureus because it is a common bacterium that infected more than 119,000 people in the U.S. during 2017 and nearly 20,000 died. Given that approximately 40% of the population are carriers of S. aureus, it becomes extremely difficult to eradicate this bacterium from spaceflight missions. This statistic leads us to believe that the immune response in microgravity will not be as capable of combatting S. aureus as it is on Earth. It has been noticed that people move more slowly when in space than on Earth, so we hypothesize that the white blood cells will react slower in a microgravity environment. In order to halt the reaction at a fixed point, we will use a Formalin preservative to more accurately analyze the count of white blood cells when our experiment returns to the lab setting.
22. Garden City, New York
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Effects of Microgravity on Dill Seed Germination
Grade 7, Garden City Middle School, Garden City School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Tejas Bera, Fallon Grant, Ryan Schmidt, Sarah Ullrich
Teacher Facilitator: Amanda DeRiso
Garden City Middle School students are working on refining their microgravity experiment.
Proposal Summary:
The proposed experiment will be investigating if dill seeds (Anethum graveolens) will germinate in microgravity conditions. On Earth, plants feed our populations and sustain humanity, allowing humans to thrive. However, astronauts do not just need food, they need to be healthy during the long-term space travel. Astronauts need strong immune systems, which in space, can be severely weakened, according to some studies. Dill is packed with essential vitamins and minerals and is shown to strengthen immunity. Even though the dill is not high in calories, it has been used by people for various medicinal purposes since ancient times. To thrive during long space travel and exploration of other planets, humans need a constant source of healthy nutrients. If we can learn to germinate dill seeds and grow dill in space, it can be one of these sources. The investigation of the effects of microgravity on dill seed germination is an important step toward developing space agriculture of the future.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTs:
Effects of Microgravity on the Germination of Carrot Seeds
Grade 7, Garden City Middle School, Garden City School District
Co-Principal Investigators: William Buccellato, Alexandra Butvick, Marcus Lam, Caileigh McDonough
Teacher Facilitator: Amanda DeRiso
Proposal Summary:
The following experiment will investigate if carrot seeds, Daucus carota, have the ability to germinate in microgravity, and if their germination is affected by microgravity. If carrot seed germination is possible in space, people might be able to grow carrots as a food and vitamin source during space exploration. Carrots are known to have a lot of nutrients and health benefits. They are a great source of vitamin A (from beta carotene), vitamins B6 and K1 and potassium. Studies showed that carrots might promote bone strength, eye health, and even decrease the risk of cancer. If astronauts can grow carrots from seeds for food during the space explorations, they
will stay healthier and perform better compared to the situations when they only consume less nutritional pre-packaged foods. This is how this knowledge of germination of carrot seeds in microgravity can help people advance in space exploration.
Effects of Microgravity on the Hatching of Brine Shrimp (Artemia salina)
Grade 7, Garden City Middle School, Garden City School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Miles Luk, Colton Mack, Letao Tao, Brooke Williams
Teacher Facilitator: Amanda DeRiso
Proposal Summary:
The following experiment will investigate the effect of microgravity on hatching of brine shrimp eggs (Artemia salina). Learning about the brine shrimp egg hatching in orbit is very important. Brine shrimp are a key part of the food web. In space, they can be used to feed fish and larger crustaceans. Brine shrimp also have DNA similar to fish and larger crustaceans. Therefore, experiments with brine shrimp eggs hatching in space can give us insights as to longer and larger space experiments with fish and aquatic life in the future. In this experiment, we will use dried brine shrimp cysts. Brine shrimp cysts are easy to use; they are very light and do not take up a lot of space. The knowledge of brine shrimp egg hatching, growth and development is very important if humans want to continue space travel and exploration.
23. Long Beach, New York
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
How Does Microgravity Affect the Germination of Oyster Mushroom Spawns (Pleurotus Ostreatus)?
Grade 6, Long Beach Middle School, Long Beach Public Schools
Principal Investigator: Giuliana Urrego
Investigator: Gregory Seifert
Collaborators: Frank Depace, Nathaniel Kaplan, Jackson Spitz
Teacher Facilitator: Mrs. Dean
Student researchers observing growth of fungal mycelium.
Proposal Summary:
The question being tested is how microgravity will affect the growth of oyster mushroom spawns. The group is exploring this question because mushrooms don’t need sunlight to grow and in space there is none. This makes it the perfect environment to grow oyster mushrooms in. Mushrooms have a lot of vitamins such as Vitamin B and Vitamin D which comes from the sun. There is no Vitamin D in space so that’s why it’s best to bring oyster mushrooms up there to eat because everyone needs Vitamin D. In addition there are even more vitamins in oyster mushrooms. Including, niacin (providing 21% of the recommended daily intake), riboflavin (18%), and pantothenic acid (11%). The humans eating the oyster mushrooms can also get small amounts of folate, Vitamin B and a Vitamin of the B complex, thiamin.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTs:
The Effect of Microgravity on Biodegradable Plastic?
Grade 6, Long Beach Middle School, Long Beach Public Schools
Principal Investigator: Maven Aull
Investigator: Isabella Basile
Collaborator: Na’Raiya McBride
Teacher Facilitator: Natasha Nurse
Proposal Summary:
Plastic items are useful and convenient, but they are not as good for the environment. The team wants to study the effect of microgravity on biodegradable plastic because less plastic will make a good impact on the environment. The goal of this experiment is to compare how fast plastic breaks down on the International Space Station compared
to here on Earth. The team will use a small piece of a biodegradable plastic bag and PETase enzyme. The Team will measure the mass of the starting pieces of plastic and compare them with the mass of the plastic pieces that come back from space. The team’s hypothesis is that if gravity in space is weaker, then the plastic will degrade faster. Wouldn’t it be cool if plastic could be sent to space to break down faster? This experiment will require a culture of the enzyme itself and a sample of biodegradable plastic.
The Effect of Microgravity on Lima Bean Germination
Grade 6, Long Beach Middle School, Long Beach Public Schools
Co-Principal Investigators: Adrian Celis, Thomas Corning
Collaborators: Isabella Corritore, Joseph Isola Jr., Isaac Yeroshalmi
Teacher Facilitator: Mrs. Chimienti
Proposal Summary:
In the experiment the group will be testing the effect of how microgravity affects the growth of a dwarf lima bean. We will test the germination of a dwarf lima bean in space/microgravity and compare it to that on Earth. Since there is no gravity in space, will it even grow? The reason the questions are important is because lima beans could be a nutritional food source in space. Dwarf lima beans are a good source of molybdenum. This experiment could help in research about agriculture in space. Based on the results of this experiment, scientists will have more information about the growth of other plants similar to lima beans.
24. Lynbrook, New York
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
How do microgravity and space conditions affect the growth of the wine cap mushroom, Stropharia rugosoannulata, mycelium?
Grade 9, Lynbrook High School, Lynbrook Union Free School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Aidan Michaels, Jack Murray
Collaborator: Ethan Palacio
Teacher Facilitator: Stoycho Velkovsky
Winning research students from Lynbrook, Jack and Aidan, preparing growth media for their microgravity experiment.
Proposal Summary:
The experiment is designed to assess how wine cap mushroom (Stropharia rugosoannulata) mycelium grows under the effect of microgravity. This is important because if the mushroom grows well in microgravity, it could be planted in the garden of the International Space Station as a potential food source for the astronauts. The wine cap mushroom is nutritious and is a source of several vital vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin D, which is very important for astronauts since they are not exposed to sunlight. The wine cap mushroom also helps rejuvenate the soil around it, which would make the garden on the ISS more effective at producing fresh food. The wine cap mushroom does not need much water, sunlight, or care, which is why it is considered one of the easiest mushrooms to grow and why it would have a high likelihood of success at growing in the ISS garden. It is of the utmost importance that the astronauts remain healthy and have a source of fresh food, especially during long-term missions. The combination of being easy to grow, a good source of nutrition, and a benefit to the soil it is planted in, make the wine cap mushroom potentially one of the most important food sources grown in the ISS garden. The goal of the experiment is to determine whether wine cap mushroom mycelium could grow effectively in space as both a food source for the astronauts on the ISS and as an asset for other plants being grown.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTs:
The Effect of Microgravity on the Oxidization of Iron
Grade 6, Lynbrook North Middle School, Lynbrook Union Free School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Anderson Bell, Liam Proper, Owen Rudolph, Antonio Zollo
Teacher Facilitators: Stephanie Reel and Amanda Argurkis
Proposal Summary:
The question this experiment aims to answer is, how does microgravity affect the oxidization of iron? To test this question, a 5-gram iron bar will be mixed with 3mL of salt water and kept at the ISS. The same experiment will be replicated on Earth. Once the ISS samples return to Earth, all samples will be examined under an Electron microscope and the mass will be recorded. From this experiment we expect to learn if and how fast iron oxidizes in space. Once the rate of oxidation is determined, this discovery will impact the use of iron and other metals in space and in space travel.
How Does Microgravity Effect the Growth of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Cells?
Grades 8 and 12, Lynbrook North Middle School, Lynbrook Union Free School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Baili Georgoulas, Delia Kirkpatrick, Annabelle Murray
Collaborator: Scarlett Dellacona
Teacher Facilitator: Joseph McErlean
Proposal Summary:
The goal of this experiment is to find out the effects of microgravity on Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cancer cells and compare them to the research done on their survival in simulated microgravity (performed by Ugur Topal and Cihan Zamur). The investigators will compare how the cancer cells survived in microgravity vs. the Earth’s environment. They want to see how the Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cells replicate in different environments and how quickly the cells would die in microgravity. In simulated microgravity, the cells replicated at a slower rate and died more quickly than the same cells do in the Earth’s regular gravity. The investigators think that in real microgravity, as opposed to simulated microgravity, the replication and death of the cells would have even better results. The results would be compared to how the Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cells survived the gravity and environment on Earth. It is hypothesized that the Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cells will die more quickly and more efficiently in microgravity than in Earth’s gravity. The ultimate purpose of this experiment is to see if microgravity can assist in finding a cure for
cancer.
25. Norwood, New York
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
The Effects of Microgravity on the Reproduction Cycle of Drosophila melanogaster (Common Fruit Fly)
Grades 10 and 12, Harrisville Central School, Harrisville Central School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Nadia Atkinson, Maia Bernhard
Teacher Facilitator: Nicole Taylor
Student Researchers conducting preliminary trials on the common fruit fly.
Proposal Summary:
Fruit flies, specifically Drosophila melanogaster, are one of the most commonly used animals in genetic research. Because of this, it is vital that we learn as much as we can about how the fruit fly’s environment affects it. According to previous studies, microgravity affects many things, so it stands to reason that it might affect the life cycle of the Drosophila melanogaster – it’s important to find this out. The researchers proposing this experiment would like to send male and female fruit fly specimens to measure how the life cycle is affected and the mortality rates of pupae and adults. To do this, the amount of larvae, pupae, and adults will be counted upon return to Earth, and compared with the control experiment. Once the experiment is activated (clamp A unclamped), the males and females will be able to interact, providing the opportunity for them to begin mating. The hypothesis of this experiment is that the fruit flies will breed slightly less, and mortality will be higher than in the control experiment conducted on Earth. These results could lead to the generation of more efficient ways to source fruit flies for genetic experiments in space, as well as further conclusions about how microgravity affects the life cycle of other animals that have similar DNA.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
The Effect of Microgravity on Anaerobic Bacterial Organic Waste Consumption
Grades 6 and 8, A.A Kingston Middle School, Potsdam Central School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Willow Acres, Amina Ait Maatallah, Andrea Torres, Sophia Xiang
Teacher Facilitator: Rebecca Munn
Proposal Summary:
This experimental proposal is hoping to accomplish a better and more reliable way to dispose of organic waste on the ISS and possibly future space settlements. This would be the very first step for our mission, as if this plan works it may also be possible to also get rid of plastics and fabrics in space. We will begin with our 2 mL of tortilla, anaerobic bacteria culture, and 10% formalin to kill and preserve all specimens. We will then compare with our earth experiment to see if our anaerobic bacteria was able to decompose organic matter efficiently while under the strain of microgravity. We believe that when and if our experiment reaches the ISS and is successful, it
could aid with some current issues we have with our atmosphere. These include but are not limited to, carbon dioxide increase, damage to satellites from space debris, and long-lasting effects on the ozone layer. This method may be a suitable change because other disposal methods include combustion, or sending it back down to Earth and not being self-sustainable on the ISS. Our experiment on anaerobic bacterial organic waste consumption could also help assist future space explorations so if and when the astronauts create substantial waste, they can get rid of it safely and efficiently.
The effects of microgravity on the corrosive properties of salt water
Grade 11, St. Lawrence Central High School, Brasher Falls Central School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Alison Jarvis, Kaleigh Recore, Sawyer Francis
Teacher Facilitator: Darlene Bissonette
Proposal Summary:
What are the effects of microgravity on the corrosion of saltwater on steel wool? That is the question we will hopefully know the answer to once our data has been collected throughout our experiment on the ISS. We chose this topic specifically to be tested because steel is used in many places on the ISS and plays an important part in the astronauts’ day to day lives. Somebody living in microgravity for any period of time will come to the point where they depend on steel to maintain their safety. This experiment aims to observe the effects of microgravity on the corrosive properties of salt water through testing different types of steel wool. The study will utilize all three chambers. In the first chamber, 434 Stainless Steel Wool will be used, a type of steel wool that doesn’t corrode. In the middle chamber, we will use a corrosive agent, saltwater. Then in the last chamber, bare steel wool will be used. Once on the ship, both clamps should be taken off so the corrosive agent, saltwater, would be in contact with
both types of steel wool. By the end of this experiment they will be able to see the different effects the saltwater and gravity had on corroding different types of steel wool.We would like to see how microgravity affects different types of steel wool and if it can prevent, or decrease the rate at which the steel wool corrodes in salt water.
26. Red Hook, New York
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Examining Artemia salina Hatching in the Presence of Microgravity
Grade 12, Red Hook High School, Red Hook Central School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Jessica Amato, Zola Campisi, Avis Roszko, Raphael Senterfit-Sanjuan, Tucker Sheahan
Teacher Facilitator: Deborah Beam
Preparing the Mission 17 experiment: “Sea Monkey Development in Microgravity” Pictured from left to right – Raphael Senterfit-Sanjuan, Zola Campisi, Avis Roszco, Jessica Amato and Tucker Sheehan.
Proposal Summary:
The proposed investigation will examine the presence of microgravity and its impact on the hatching of brine shrimp. By utilizing a small, quickly-hatching organism, the results of the experiment can serve to commence a bigger movement to research sustaining earth-based life in environments featuring microgravity. The goal of the experiment is to convey the potential changes in standard life processes that may result from differences in pressure on the internal and external structures of organisms, providing insight to more complex cellular interactions in microgravity in the future. This exploration is also ideal for displaying the differences between microgravity and standard environments because of the lack of modification of said environments. The eggs do not have to be in a refrigerated or heated environment in order to hatch, controlling the results further. This experiment will allow for examination of complex organism interactions in differing environments, allowing insight to astronaut physicality and future sources of energy and food in space.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
Investigating the Effects of Microgravity on the Properties of Janthinobacterium lividum (BJB312)
Grade 8, Linden Avenue Middle School, Red Hook Central School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Quinn Murphy, Jackson Huber
Investigator: Chase Kabat
Teacher Facilitator: Larra Agate
Proposal Summary:
The purpose of the experiment is to find out if Janthinobacterium lividum’s properties, such as its purple hue, are affected by microgravity. J. lividum (also called BJB312) is a water bacterium found in the Hudson Valley Watershed of New York State that produces a protein called violacein responsible for its purple coloration. This is controlled by the gene VioA-VioE. This experiment is to learn if microgravity will affect the gene expression causing the bacteria to lose its coloration. J. lividum and other violacein producing bacteria have been shown to have anticancerous and antifungal properties. This has been found to be beneficial to the local wildlife, specifically the protection of amphibians from the chytrid fungus. According to Oppenheim (2019), findings from this experiments could be helpful for astronauts who embark on long durations of space travel due to issues with fungal infections in the International Space Station. The experiment will focus on J. lividum’s production of its purple pigment after being exposed to microgravity in contrast to the control experiment that will be conducted on Earth. This gene expression has been chosen as it will be easily observed after returning from the International Space Station.
Sustainability of Bread in Space
Grades 11-12, Red Hook Senior High School, Red Hook Central School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Brandon Juran, Daniel Hubner, Kylee Knuschke, Owen Longenecker, Kayla VanPelt-Cathcart
Teacher Facilitator: Deborah Beam
Proposal Summary:
Testing the sustainability of food is incredibly important for future missions in space and if the future includes colonizing Mars or the moon one day. Mold here on Earth is something that is frequently dealt with, whether it be bread mold, mold grown on fruit, or mold in one’s house due to too much moisture in the air. The investigation of testing how quickly and how mold grows in space is essential for the future. Will mold grow faster? Will mold grow slower? Will mold have trouble growing? Those are just some questions that experiment plans on covering. There are
many challenges that this investigation faces and one of those is having mold only grow in microgravity. If mold grows before that, then the experiment will not have the correct data that the investigation is looking for, and if mold grows after the time in microgravity, then the risk of having too much mold to observe change raises an issue. The investigation will serve as a building block for future studies on food sustainability. If the investigation shows results, then this experiment would be a massive success for the start to observe how microgravity affects mold growing, reproduction, and the mold spores themselves.
27. Pickerington, Ohio
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Bamboo Growth in Microgravity
Grade 6, Harmon Middle School, Pickerington Local School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Naila Abdi, Abigayel Ghebireegzabher
Teacher Facilitators: Erica Lovely and Anna Meyer
Harmon Middle School SSEP team analyzing the trial germination of bamboo seeds.
Proposal Summary:
The purpose of this experiment is to explore the effects of microgravity on the growth of bamboo seeds. Comparing the system in a microgravity environment and on Earth will allow us to know if bamboo can grow in microgravity.This research is important because bamboo can provide many nutrition and medical benefits for astronauts. The experiment this group is proposing will
address the question “How does the rate of bamboo growth change in microgravity?” If we can grow bamboo in microgravity the astronauts on the International Space Station will be able to develop more nutrition and medicine. This experiment seeks to evaluate the germination rate of bamboo and the quality of the bamboo nutrients.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
Campylobacter within Microgravity
Grade 11, Pickerington High School North, Pickerington Local School District
Principal Investigator: Evangelia Smith
Teacher Facilitator: Daniel McCullough
Proposal Summary:
As this experiment ensues, the question that is asked is “How does Microgravity Affect an Antibiotic’s Strength against Campylobacteriosis.” The purpose of this experiment is to test how fast an antibiotic will kill a certain type of bacteria with the effects of microgravity inside the ISS, in comparison to the bacteria’s regular reaction on Earth. These experiments are important to test as the human immune system weakens during long durations of microgravity, making the body prone to diseases. This is especially important as campylobacteriosis (or simply campylobacter) is a gastrointestinal food-borne disease and may be within the food given to astronauts whether or not it has expired. The initial hypothesis for this experiment is that if the campylobacter comes in contact with microgravity, it will grow yet die faster with antibiotics as there will be practically nothing pulling the bacteria down, giving it zero restrictions. The reason that multiple food-borne diseases have been experimented on is that every bacteria/virus works differently and, therefore will have different results. With multiple experiments on food-borne illnesses in space, we can obtain more data on how fast bacteria die during space travel. The numerous results may also contribute to research back on Earth and give scientists a chance to provide more effective treatments and medications for food-borne illnesses.
Bone Mineralization in Microgravity
Grade 11, Pickerington High School North, Pickerington Local School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Audrey Chesnut, Kyliegh Crampton, Grace Craycraft
Teacher Facilitator: Adam Philpott
Proposal Summary:
The purpose of this experiment is to explore the effects of vitamin D in microgravity on osteoblast mineralization in contrast to osteoblast mineralization on Earth. Comparing the experiment on both Earth and in microgravity will show how mineralization and supplementation may or may not improve bone density due to microgravity. The hypothesis is, “If osteoblasts are subjected to vitamin D in microgravity, then the osteoblasts will have a different mineralization than on Earth”. If the hypothesis follows as predicted, astronauts and scientists will have an additional basis to help explore ways to keep humans in space longer by diminishing the risk of developing osteoporosis and potential injury.
28. Gervais, Oregon
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Patulin Growth in Space
Grades 11-12, Gervais High School
Co-Principal Investigators: Diana Garcia, Lauren Ferschweiler, Miguel Orozco, Sinai Reyes
Teacher Facilitator: Kristen Shirley
The winning team from Gervais, OR, setting up their experiment.
Proposal Summary:
The research question being tested is how well Patulin will grow in space as opposed to on Earth. Patulin is the result of several molds, and this experiment focuses on the fungus Penicillium Expansum, and how apple products decompose or produce patulin. P. Expansum is a blue mold which causes soft spots and gradually disintegrates certain fruit. The amount of Patulin produced has a direct correlation to the amount an apple product has decomposed. This could potentially help astronauts in space when they need to decide what foods to bring or what foods need to be preserved better. Patulin growth is an indirect, but still related way of measuring decomposition in apple products. This experiment was chosen due to a collective interest in bacteria and decomposition of cells. The expectation for the experiment is to get a measurable amount of Patulin from two different samples, and compare which has more. One of the samples will have been molding on Earth while the other in space. They will decompose for the same amount of time, and start with the same amount of bacteria and apple sauce. To make sure the test that is sent to space has no time to grow on Earth, the astronauts will mix ethanol with the sauce before it is to return to Earth, to preserve it. The results will be measured by using a Patulin ELISA test.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
How will strawberry seeds be affected by zero gravity space?
Grade 10, Gervais High School
Co-Principal Investigators: Dylan Angeles, Delanie Rutledge, Leslie Gaytan, Mckenzie Albee
Teacher Facilitator: Kristen Shirley
Proposal Summary:
The experiment that we are conducting will be testing seed germination in space, specifically what having no gravity does to the seed germination . Our goal is to gather enough information so that we can see the benefits of seed germination in space and so we can see the differences between germinating strawberries on Earth and in space with no gravity. We will be germinating strawberry seeds because it’s a nutritious fruit and would be a nice fresh snack for astronauts. It’s necessary to test, because strawberries are relatively easy to grow and could be
quite healthy and beneficial for our astronauts. Strawberries contain vitamin C and also contain good amounts of potassium, they could provide another variety of food to eat in space. The experiment should help figure out how gravity affects a seed’s germination and the way their roots grow. If gravity is what tells roots to grow downward, then the roots will not grow downward and grow in different directions due to having no gravitational pull.
Fish Muscle Development
Grades 9 and 11-12, Gervais High School
Co-Principal Investigators: Alexandra Zharkoff, Eric Morales, Logan Joy-Koer, Noelia Elizarraras
Teacher Facilitator: April Joy-Koer
Proposal Summary:
Fish have been proven to be excellent sources of Vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and Vitamin D. This experiment will be examining the muscular development of Rainbow Trout in a microgravity environment and comparing the results with Rainbow Trout grown in an environment with gravity. This topic is worth investing time in because it will provide evidence for whether or not fish are a reliable food source for those living in space for long periods of
time. The scientific principle being studied during this experiment is, If the experiment proves to be successful, then the farming of fish in space as a source of great nutritional value could be further explored.
29. Erie, Pennsylvania
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
The Effect of Microgravity on Crystal Growth
Grades 7-8, Iroquois Junior-Senior High School, Iroquois School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Joshua Allison, Elliot Kemp, Luke Noyes, Alex Pierce, Nicholas Pribyshchuck
Teacher Facilitators: Jacob Bartlett and Shannon Glennon
Iroquois SSEP Student Researchers working to perfect their crystallization experiment.
Proposal Summary:
This proposal asks the question of how microgravity affects the growth of silicate materials. This experiment will be using a quartz crystal in a quartz solution. The group will also recreate the same experiment at the same time to supply a control group for the team, then they will measure the crystals to see if the crystals grow better in microgravity. The group will see if the crystal in microgravity has less strain defects; quartz grown with less imperfections could lead to better technology, such as crystal oscillators. The group believes that the crystal will have less defects, since it is believed that strain is the main problem coming from gravity. The crystals will be measured by noting the way the crystals diffract x-ray wavelengths. The team hopes that the insights can be used to better humanity in the end.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
The Effect of Microgravity on Brine Shrimp Growth
Grades 5-6, Iroquois Elementary School, Iroquois School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Camden Heitman, Zamaria Klett, Nick Siliano, William Vazquez
Teacher Facilitators: Elise Graham, Lindsey Bloomster and Jennifer Foutz
Proposal Summary:
The group’s experiment proposal is focused on curiosity about brine shrimp and if they can grow and survive in microgravity on the International Space Station. The investigation will compare the difference between brine shrimp growth on Earth in Erie, Pennsylvania and in microgravity on the International Space Station. The investigation will see if they can grow and survive in microgravity, which could benefit life on other plants in the future. The proposed investigation is important because brine shrimp are important to our ecosystem and will be needed if global warming results in an unlivable environment on Earth. If earth becomes uninhabitable, humans may have to move to a new planet in the future. The proposed investigation is important because if we must leave earth and go to another planet, we can safely transport brine shrimp to the new planet.
Hovering Hydrophyte
Grades 5-6, Iroquois Elementary School, Iroquois School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Jaxon Capper, Nakiya Chesebrough, Gabrielle Kysor
Teacher Facilitators: Leslie Durante, Lauren Fadden, Elaine Flagg, Erica Luke, Amy Schmidt and Jennifer Foutz
Proposal Summary:
The group’s experiment proposal is focused on curiosity about duckweed. The investigation will test the difference between the growth of duckweed in gravity here in Erie, Pennsylvania and in microgravity on the International Space Station. The investigation will see how fast duckweed grows in microgravity and on Earth. The proposed investigation is important because the only food astronauts can eat in space is freeze dried and they need a special microwave to prepare it unless it falls under special standards. Sending duckweed into space and having it grow would be a huge benefit because if kept correctly, it could flourish into a huge food source. Duckweed is
edible by most humans and animals so this could give us another step closer to having another planet we can live on.
30. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – CCAC
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
The effect(s) of microgravity on the dormant state of cancer cells
Grade 13, Community College of Allegheny County
Co-Principal Investigators: Jason Gomes, Daniel Roth
Teacher Facilitator: Francis Cartieri
Daniel Roth and Jason Gomes are hard at work with their mentor Francis Cartieri evaluating samples and testing cancer cell proliferation before preparing specimens for flight.
Proposal Summary:
Despite our increasing success in the early detection and removal of primary cancers, most cancer mortality occurs after periods of remission, during which cancer cells may “hide” from immune and therapeutic detection by entering a period of dormancy. The microenvironmental causes of this period of dormancy, which can last for days, months, or years, are unknown. Also unknown are the physical and chemical signals that trigger re-activation of cancer cell division, eventually leading to tumor formation, metastasis, and death. The few studies that do exist indicate that abnormal levels of certain factors (such as inflammatory, growth, and cell adherence signals) are associated with cancer cell dormancy and proliferation. Disturbingly, several of these factors are co-associated with exposure to microgravity. If exposure to microgravity effects cycles of cancer cell proliferation and/or dormancy, this may impose challenging limitations for future space travel and its long-term consequences. Most directly, microgravity exposure could accelerate cancer formation in spacefarers whose bodies harbor dormant cancer cells. Our team proposes to analyze the effects of a microgravity
environment on cultured cancer cell lines from the model organism Xenopus laevis (African clawed frog). Specifically, relative levels of gene expression for dormancy-associated proteins will be compared between microgravity-exposed cancer cells, and cancer cells not exposed to microgravity. Additionally, cell morphology, proliferation, and intercellular behavior will be assessed in all groups. This study will directly aid in our understanding of microgravity’s impact on cancer dormancy and activation, while improving our limited understanding of the phenomenon of cancer dormancy more broadly.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
The Influence of Microgravity on the Biodegradation of a 3D Printed, Algae Infused, PLA Model
Grade 13, Community College of Allegheny County
Co-Principal Investigators: Cole Gilbert, Patrick Terry
Collaborator: Hunter Sasse
Teacher Facilitators: Patricia Donehue and Anne Duffy
Proposal Summary:
Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a revolutionary technology that has impacted many manufacturing sectors. On the International Space Station (ISS), they can use this technology to fabricate tools and equipment on demand, such as plastic syringes or a custom wrench, without waiting for resupply from Earth. These fabricated goods can deteriorate and break so to prevent a buildup of space junk, they need to be repurposed. The refabricator aboard the ISS is perfect for melting scrap plastics and extruding them into new filaments. However, an alternative to recycling the material this way is to compost it and fold the degradation products into a future bioregenerative food system. A biodegradable material derived from fermented plant sugars, polylactic acid (PLA) is a filament that could be used for 3D printing and then biodegraded after it is no longer functional. The process is dependent on the environment, leading to the question: Will microgravity influence the biodegradation of PLA?
Influence of Microgravity on Algorithmic Growth of Physarum Polycephalum
Grade 14, Community College of Allegheny County
Principal Investigator: Yasseen Sabil
Co-Investigators: Isaac Brennan, Santiago Castro, Yu-Chieh Chao, Basem Majed, Jared Mott
Teacher Facilitators: J. David Kokales and Emily Marshman
Proposal Summary:
In most biological circumstances, decision-making capabilities are coupled with neural networks. Physarum Polycephalum, the unicellular organism known as slime mold, however, demonstrates intelligent decision-making without any neural structure. Physarum has shown the ability to solve mazes, optimize traveling salesman problems, and discriminate between alternate food sources. Its computation is theorized to be the result of the activation of chemoreceptors and the subsequent initiation of internal transduction through the slime mold’s vasculature. Chemotaxis allows the slime mold plasmodium to increase its internal pressure and stretch its membrane toward potential food sources. This simplistic mechanism has inspired data optimization algorithms with various research applications. This proposal intends to gauge the adaptation of the plasmodium to microgravity by creating a testing environment with aerially suspended nutrient sources. Physarum, being limited by gravity, moves horizontally in standard conditions. In zero gravity, however, the morphological response of the plasmodium may opt for vertically suspended nutrients. The chemoreceptors closest to the suspended oats will hypothetically initiate vascular transduction and increase the density of circulating nuclei nearby. Fluorescent dyes can be used to measure the nuclei density at variable regions throughout the configuration. This vein of research holds value because of the slime mold’s similarity to proto-intelligent organisms. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms may help illuminate the prerequisites of intelligent cellular formations. Furthermore, the optimization of the slime mold in 3-dimensions could inspire new strategies for optimizing complex networks and even non-Euclidian systems.
31. Bandera, Texas
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
The Effects of Microgravity on Basil Germination
Grade 7, Bandera Middle School, Bandera ISD
Co-Principal Investigators: Emma Rynarzewski, Sophia Whidden, Elizabeth Garcia-Medina
Teacher Facilitator: Kathleen Foster
Student Researchers work to optimize their Basil Germination experiment.
Proposal Summary:
This investigation will aid in advances in astronaut nutrition and health by exploring whether or not basil seeds will germinate in microgravity. Basil contains many vitamins and minerals, and it also contains antioxidants such as lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin. Having or adding basil to your diet can help reduce high blood sugar levels. Sweet basil contains a compound called eugenol, which can block calcium channels, which in turn may help lower blood pressure. Essential oils in basil can help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels as well. Basil also contains magnesium, which can help improve blood flow by allowing your muscles and blood vessels to relax. These oils, including eugenol, linalool, and citronellol, can also help fight inflammation in the body. This in turn can help lower the risk of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, and bowel issues. Basil has antibacterial properties as well. Oils in the herb may help fight bacteria in people with respiratory, urinary, abdominal, and skin infections. Basil also has many other nutrients in it. These nutrients include calcium, vitamin A, vitamin K, manganese, iron, zinc, and potassium.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
German Chamomile Seed Germination
Grades 6-7, Bandera Middle School, Bandera ISD
Co-Principal Investigators: Elle Vander Zee, Madelyn Simon, Isabella Pace, Haily Livingston, Paisley Mears
Teacher Facilitator: Kathleen Foster
Proposal Summary:
This investigation will provide more information about the effects microgravity has on German Chamomile seed germination. German Chamomile takes 10 to 14 days to germinate. German Chamomile has many health benefits such as treating diabetes, lowering blood sugar, slowing or preventing osteoporosis, reducing inflammation, cancer treatment and prevention, helping with relaxation, treating cold symptoms, treatment for mild skin conditions, anxiety, and insomnia. When the Chamomile plant is dried, tea can be made, this tea helps with anxiety and can be used to calm astronauts when they are in a confined space such as the crew cabin in the International Space Station. Chamomile plants are even safe to eat without any preparation, both the leaves and the flowers are safe to eat. Chamomile may increase brain neurotransmitter activity (serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline) and thereby has positive effects on mood and anxiety. Chamomile is very medicinal and is used all over the world.
The effect of microgravity on liquid skin and pig skin
Grade 6, Bandera Middle School, Bandera ISD
Co-Principal Investigators: Blu Rollo, Riley Alright, Aubrey Freeman, Isaac Amayaarreola, Ava Moran
Teacher Facilitator: Kathleen Foster
Proposal Summary:
The purpose of this experiment is to see how Medique liquid skin will dry on pig skin in microgravity. The main goal of this experiment is to see Medique liquid skin that will help astronauts with cuts. While this experiment is in space, the same experiment will happen on
Earth. When the experiment returns from space it will be checked with a microscope to see if the skin dried completely. The pig skin is going to be tested for a hardness test, therefore the experiment from the earth and the one in space will be scratched together, and the structure will be different. Pig skin is similar to human skin. For example, some hospitals use pig skin instead of human skin for skin transplants. Also, some tattoo artists use liquid skin pig skin for practice or training.Liquid skin is more efficient to use than bandages or band-aids. liquid skin stays on for about five to ten days. If somebody gets a cut they would need this product in some cases. Also, hospitals use liquid bandages after they use stitches. It only takes about a minute to dry and is easier to use than needles. This may also help when an astronaut has a fear of needles. liquid skin comes in small packaging, so it doesn’t take up as much space as bandages or needles. In conclusion, using liquid bandage in space could have tremendous benefits and the experiment should show that this product can be used appropriately under microgravity conditions.
32. Burleson, Texas
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Can a Cotton Ball Instead of Soil Germinate a Lavender Seed in Microgravity?
Grade 6, Kerr Middle School, Burleson ISD
Co-Principal Investigators: Abigail Bain, Jack Crow, Lyla Meek, Addison White
Teacher Facilitator: Terry Briggs
Burleson Independent School District’s Mission 17 flight team for Lavender Seed Germination examines the germination rate of their lavender seed growth in order to finalize their experiment timeline. Team members left to right: Abigail Bain, Jack Crow, Lyla Meek, and Addison White.
Proposal Summary:
Lavender seeds produced with pretty purple leaves and a refreshing scent. This experiment was chosen to explore the effect of how a lavender seed can grow without using soil. This observation will be using a Type 3 FME tube. The criteria for this lavender plant to germinate is the use of a cotton ball and sprouting of the single lavender seed. A cotton ball was chosen because the soil is denser and higher mass. Mass equals more financial resources used during space exploration. This project also includes water and formalin. Formalin is used to stop the plant’s growth in microgravity. This will allow researchers to compare and contrast the growth rates of different test samples. The design of the experiment is planned for the plant to not fully grow, just to sprout. To investigate the plant, it must go through each stage of a lavender seed’s life to fully understand its growth. This project can be beneficial in the future because quality plant growth during space exploration will provide a viable food source in the future. Additionally, in the world of privatized space travel, cost will be sufficiently higher based on fuel expenses. Payload size must be considered. The cotton ball option of plant growth is vital to reducing those cost. According to clinicaltrials.gov, lavender is proven to help reduce blood pressure and anxiety with its refreshing scent. High blood pressure and anxiety are known medical issues among the crew members on the ISS. So in the end “ Don’t tell me the sky’s the limit when there are footprints on the moon.”- Paul Brandt
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
Do Antibiotics Work in Space?
Grade 6, Game Development Design School, Burleson ISD
Co-Principal Investigators: Nathaniel Bowers, Hayden Gandhi, Matthew Godwin
Teacher Facilitator: Jeremy Beckwith
Proposal Summary:
We want to see what happens to antibiotics in space. How does it affect bacteria? Does it still work? Why would it be useful? We would like to see if it still works, and if it succeeds, then it would be productive to colonize space because if people get sick up there we can give them medicine. “Do antibiotics kill bacteria in space?” is what we are trying to figure out.
The effect of microgravity on Bifidobacterium longum
Grade 6, STEAM Middle School, Burleson ISD
Co-Principal Investigators: Alexis Jackson, Brynna Bassett, Cabrie Barron, Peyson Eades
Teacher Facilitator: Jeremy Beckwith
Proposal Summary:
For our experiment, we will evaluate the growth rate of Bifidobacteria in microgravity. The bacteria we are utilizing is Bifidobacteria longum to investigate the question “How can microgravity affect the growth of bacteria in space compared to Earth”. Bifidobacteria is a probiotic that generally lives in your intestines and stomach. They help your body perform certain functions such as digestion and fighting other harmful bacteria. Bifidobacteria also produce vitamins such as vitamin B. For our experiment, we will need Bifidobacteria, one test tube, one clamp, two stoppers, agar and our fixative; Formalin. We want to do this experiment so we can compare the growth of bacteria in microgravity versus the growth here on Earth. The controlled experiment will have the same materials as the one up in space. With the same materials, our controlled experiment will be conducted on Earth, so we can accurately compare the growth of Bifidobacteria longum within microgravity. From some of our research, we have read that bacteria will grow faster in space than on Earth. The bacteria will have all the nutrients it needs, and the environment it needs to stay alive. When the experiment is over and the bacteria come back down to Earth we will compare the different growth rates.
33. Ector County, Texas
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Pestalotiopsis microspora in Microgravity
Grades 10-11, Permian Basin STEM Academy, Ector County ISD
Co-Principal Investigators: Evan Hernandez, Bryan Nash
Investigator: Georgi Shoumaroff
Collaborators: Evan Boyer, Kagan Holder
Teacher Facilitator: Karey Grametbaur
Student researchers inoculating an agar plate to grow more fungus to be used in the experiment. Pictured left to right: Evan Hernandez, Georgi Shourmaroff, Evan Boyer, Bryan Nash, and Kagan Holder.
Proposal Summary:
The goal of this investigation is to determine whether or not the fungus Pestalotiopsis microspora can survive and reproduce in the unique conditions of an environment in microgravity. Plastic can take anywhere from 250 years to well over 1000 years to decompose, but even after this decomposition, the microplastics left behind are still hazardous to the environment. Pestalotiopsis microspora is a fungus capable of breaking down plastic and converting it into easily biodegradable compounds, similar to compost. If the Pestalotiopsis microspora is able to grow in a microgravity environment— such as space and is still able to break down plastics, then its recycling capabilities could be a viable alternative to simply shooting waste back at the Earth (the current standard for waste disposal from the ISS). This method would help solve the issue of how to properly reduce or eliminate the waste that astronauts produce in space. In addition, the Pestalotiopsis microspora would create a usable byproduct that astronauts could use to grow useful plants in, as the Pestalotiopsis microspora turns the plastic into organic material that is highly conducive to plant growth. Though many mushrooms, molds, and fungi were considered, these two very desirable qualities of Pestalotiopsis microspora make it a prime candidate to study in microgravity.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
Brown Algae Tube in Microgravity
Grade 5, Hays STEAM Academy, Ector County ISD
Co-Principal Investigators: Horacio Hernandez Frias, Cristian Eduardo Lopez, Caleb Daniel Orozco, Harper Pierce-Deshazo
Teacher Facilitator: Erika Pocaterra
Proposal Summary:
The experiment is about growing brown algae to see if it grows differently in microgravity since it can be used as a type of food for astronauts because it is not only edible but used for cancer, arthritis, stress, heart diseases, and many other conditions.
The Effect of Pseudomonas aeruginosa on Polyethylene in Microgravity
Grades 10-11, George H.W. Bush New Tech Odessa, Ector County ISD
Co-Principal Investigators: Eva Brower, Nathalaine Denise De Leon, Mikail Karais, Adrian Rodriguez, Beverly Lanae Vanessa Woods
Teacher Facilitators: Lornalyn De Leon and Maria Lopez
Proposal Summary:
The purpose of this experiment is to test the effect of microgravity on the degradation of synthetic plastic such as Polyethylene by the bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Researchers want to determine if Pseudomonas aeruginosa will degrade at a faster rate in microgravity compared to the rate it may degrade polyethylene here in zero gravity. This experiment will determine if Pseudomonas aeruginosa would be beneficial to the environment by degrading plastics that are causing pollution. Not only could this experiment prove that it would be beneficial for pollution control and management but could also lead to the discovery of other bacteria that serves the same purpose. In the experiment, Pseudomonas aeruginosa will be placed in the same vial as the plastic film and will be observed for morphological changes in microgravity and zero gravity. The researchers believe that with the experiment, additional information will be gained in the process of bacterial degradation of plastics that cause pollution here in zero gravity.
34. McKinney, Texas
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Does microgravity affect the formation of symbiotic relationships between soy and Rhizobium?
Grades 13-16, Collin College, Collin County Community College District
Co-Principal Investigators: Henry Elmendorf, Stefano Sacripanti
Teacher Facilitator: Tamara Basham
Proposal Summary:
Collin College students created a microgravity experiment that was chosen for SSEP Mission 17. The team is comprised of (left to right) Dr. Tamara Basham, Stefano Sacripanti and Henry Elmendorf. Credit: Sara Carpenter/Collin College
The topic of discussion in this proposal is to determine whether microgravity inhibits the formation of symbiotic relationships between soybeans and rhizobium. In the future when astronauts are on missions that take them further out into the solar system, they cannot rely on Earth for food and supplies and will need to find ways to gain a sustainable food source. Soybeans were chosen as the crop in this experiment due to their nutritional value and vitamin content. In addition, they could be used in the creation of bioplastics and other industrial materials, which could be used in manufacturing replacement parts if the need arises while on mission. In a DuPont experiment conducted in 2002, soybeans were proven to be able to sprout in microgravity. However, soybeans lack the capability to undergo nitrogen fixation on their own and require Rhizobium to achieve this in a process called inoculation. That process improves the yield of soybeans by 66 percent. This experiment will test to see if the formation of the symbiotic relationship is possible between soy and Rhizobium in microgravity. Inoculation will be determined by measuring if nitrogen fixating nodules are present after germination, compared with soybeans that will be inoculated on Earth. It is expected that no significant differences will be observed.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
Chemical Reaction/Erosion on a Parent Rock
Grades 11 and 13-14, Collin College, Collin County Community College District
Co-Principal Investigators: Kaylee Alire, Jack Ethan Gilkerson, Kirsten Johnson, Siddhant Singh
Teacher Facilitators: Christian Aars, Paul Manganelli
Proposal Summary:
This investigation will focus on the effects of microgravity on acid erosion and having a chemical reaction with calcium-rich parent rocks. The idea is that the acid will make contact with the parent rock as it would on Earth; the only difference is the effect gravity has on the acid. Typically, the acid would go down or straight through the rock on Earth, eroding and breaking it apart. In space, gravity cannot pull something down as forcefully as it would on Earth. So, the question being tested here is, how will microgravity affect the acid’s erosion pattern on the rock? Will the acid spread out and erode or break apart the rock differently than it would on Earth? The result expected from this investigation is for the erosion pattern to look different from the erosion pattern that occurs on Earth. This investigation will help for future exploration of possible asteroid mining with the expectation that acid will be a resource used to help erode away or break apart different areas of the asteroid and make mining easier. The information from this experiment will also help identify whether acid will be a good resource for mining other asteroids with different or similar minerals, but the expectation is that it will be a very helpful resource.
Galleria mellonella’s Polyethyleneases – Pioneers of biodegrading plastic to establish a
sustainable space environment
Grades 14 and 16, Collin College, Collin County Community College District
Co-Principal Investigators: Aubrey L. Baker, Karen M. Baker, Joshua S. Singh
Collaborators: Jacob Oster, Hannah Seats
Teacher Facilitator: Dr. Katie A. Johnson
Proposal Summary:
It can take up to 500 years to decompose plastic waste in landfills. In 2021, Americans discarded 51 million tons of plastic, and approximately 95% of it ended up in landfills, oceans, or scattered in the atmosphere. Dr. Federica Bertocchini discovered wax worms’ (Galleria mellonella) ability to biodegrade plastic through two enzymes produced in their saliva. As space travel becomes more prominent, it is important to sustain a clean space environment for future exploration. Such concerns raise the question of whether or not Galleria mellonella eggs can hatch and if their saliva enzyme, re-named PEases, can sustain the harsh changes experienced during the transition from a gravity to microgravity environment. Plastic pollution is spiraling out of control, and it is only a matter of time before society tries to use space as its next indispensable trash dump. The use of a natural resource, such as PEases, to biodegrade plastic in a microgravity environment can make revolutionary advances in stunting the exponential growth of plastic pollution on Earth as well as the space commons. If proven that the enzymes can sustain themselves under such conditions, further research would evaluate the large-scale production of the enzymes to biodegrade more plastic simultaneously. The future is space and someday humans will inhabit other planets. It is critical to take advantage of the resources on earth and mimic it in a microgravity environment to help keep it pollutant free.
35. Texarkana, Texas
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Do Tardigrades Develop Properly in Microgravity?
Grade 7, Texas Middle School, Texarkana ISD
Principal Investigator: Nirav Neupane
Co-Investigators: Kevontae Espada, Max Gaylor
Teacher Facilitator: Sarah Gustafson
Seventh graders Nirav Neupane, Kevontae Espada, and Max Gaylor perform preliminary experiments on tardigrades.
Proposal Summary:
This experiment will measure the effects of microgravity on the early development of terrestrial tardigrades. Tardigrades are a phylum of aquatic microorganisms that are found in terrestrial, aquatic, and marine ecosystems and are famous for their ability to survive extreme and harsh environments. Some species have survived temperatures from -234°C to 100°C, others have endured up to 30 years of frozen starvation, and still, others can tolerate the pressures of the deep ocean. Terrestrial forms use a process known as “cryptobiosis, ” a dehydrated state where they can combat extreme cold, vacuum, heat, and radiation in short, the conditions of space. Tardigrades’ early development consists of two stages, the egg and the juvenile stage. Once an egg is completely formed, it hatches within an average of 5-16 days. After about a week of development, it reaches the juvenile stage and continues to grow. This investigation will compare the hatching rates and average sizes of a population of tardigrades in microgravity on the International Space Station (ISS) with a similar set on the ground. If the statistics between these two experimental populations are alike, we will conclude there is no effect of gravity on the development. Our results will lead to further study on how tardigrades are able to perform such intense adaptation, and scientists could eventually learn how their tactics could be beneficial for future long-term and distant manned space missions.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
Alum Crystals in Microgravity
Grade 5, Martha and Josh Morriss Mathematics and Engineering Elementary, Texarkana ISD
Principal Investigator: Sam Mcginnis
Co-Investigators: Sheena Lee, Annistyn McFarlrland
Collaborator: Temityo Ogunkolade
Teacher Facilitator: Jordan Guillory
Proposal Summary:
The investigation will test if alum crystals can grow in microgravity. Alum crystals can be easily grown. In Thoughtco.com non edible alum crystals are sodium, ammonium, selenium, and chrome alum crystals. The properties of alunite are known to mankind for many years, but
the discovery of the crystal was found in 1824 in Italy. The original word is alun in French and that translates to alum. There are multiple different alum crystals. Potassium alum crystals are edible alum crystals. In healthline.com alum crystals can be used as a natural deodorant and can treat small cuts or wounds. Chrome alum crystals are purple crystals. If this experiment is chosen, and if alum crystals can grow in microgravity then it can help start civilization on planet Mars, on the moon or on other planets such as Venus in the future. It can also help on the International Space Station or on rockets. In one part of the tube there is exactly 4ml of water in one half of the test tube. In the other half there will be exactly .48 grams of alum powder. From there, in microgravity, they will observe the tube, and see if the alum crystals will start forming.
How does microgravity affect the growth of Wakame Algae?
Grade 5, Martha and Josh Morriss Mathematics and Engineering Elementary, Texarkana ISD
Principal Investigator: Isabella Adriana Goodman-Baston
Co-Investigators: Noah Alexander Womack, MJ Brubaker
Collaborators: Cooper Reardon, Nathan Stokes
Teacher Facilitator: Jordan Guillory
Proposal Summary:
A basic description of this choice is to see if microgravity will affect the growth of algae. In the tube will be a small amount of wakame algae, Undaria pinnatifida, along with a sufficient amount of water. The ISS crew will be observing the growth of algae over a five day period. Algae is a water-dwelling plant that comes in many different forms, from thin, hairlike substances to thicker tendrils snaking across the water. Most algae comes in varying shades of green. Some forms of algae are even edible, and all are very high in vital minerals. Algae is a relative of its tastier cousin, seaweed, which is also easy to grow. Another perk of algae is that it produces oxygen. Algae could be a future provider of the necessary gas, which is crucial for human survival, aboard space dwelling vessels. This could serve as stored oxygen onboard the ISS and then sent down to a lunar colony when needed. Algae, if studied properly could pave the
way for future microgravity plant growth experiments on the Moon. Because algae has a variety of nutrients, produces oxygen, is edible, and high in vital minerals, SSEP might consider sending algae to the International Space Station for investigation in microgravity. If the future holds possibilities for humans to live in space, they can send fish with algae in the tank for eating and producing air to breathe when the colonizers leave the protective domes of the space colony.
36. Renton, Washington
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Microgreen Growth in Microgravity Environment
Grade 8, Risdon Middle School, Renton School District
Principal Investigator: Adrienne Pesito
Co-Investigators: Roland Collette, Mika Vital
Collaborator: Haley Milne
Teacher Facilitator: Amanda Solis
Grade 8 students preparing contents to be loaded in a Type 3 FME Mini-Lab for their microgreen trial experiment.
Proposal Summary:
Microgreens are young seedlings of edible vegetables and herbs. Microgreens are smaller, can be grown more compactly, and come in around 60 variations. They have high nutritional value, packed with potassium, iron, zinc, magnesium, and copper. Microgravity environments affect an astronaut’s bone density and muscle mass (see page 3). Microgreens are filled with dietary fiber and calcium– two things that heavily support muscle growth and bone density. The following experiment will investigate how microgreen growth and structural development differ in a micro gravitational environment. This study may assist in building a more sufficient and natural diet for those in space and prolonged space travel.
37. iForward-Grantsburg, Wisconsin
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SELECTED FOR FLIGHT:
Does microgravity affect the germination of pleurotus ostreatus spores?
Grade 9, iForward Public Online Charter School, Grantsburg School District
Co-Principal Investigators: KK Turley, Tyler Babinski, Tyler Nerison, Kirsten Nichols, Rachelle Nichols
Teacher Facilitator: Mark G. Dilley
Students from iForward Online Charter School completing a proof-of-concept experiment on the germination of pleurotus ostreatus spores. From left to right: Kirsten Nichols, Tyler Babinski, Rachelle Nichols.
Proposal Summary:
Does microgravity affect the germination of Pleurotus ostreatus spores? In this experiment, our team will try to answer that question. If this experiment is successful, oyster mushrooms will be able to be grown in microgravity. This experiment is important because oyster mushrooms can provide many needed benefits to future colonies that may live in space. These mushrooms have good nutritional value and provide fiber, protein, and vitamin D. They also have the potential to help deal with waste. The fact that oyster mushrooms can not only consume decaying matter but also things like plastic is very useful. In the FME, Our team will be using approximately 3 ml plug from a Back to the Roots Mini Mushroom or similar mushroom growing kit, 2ml of sterile water, and 2ml of formalin to preserve the results. On return to Earth, an analysis of the substrate and any mycelial growth will be done and compared to the ground experiment. In conclusion, this experiment will provide valuable information if oyster mushroom mycelia can be grown in microgravity.
HONORABLE MENTION FINALISTS:
Does Bacillus safensis on iron shavings, grow or decrease in microgravity?
Grade 8, iForward Public Online Charter School, Grantsburg School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Ava Gruba, Kimberly Krempp, Jenna Mead
Teacher Facilitator: Tammy Dymesich
Proposal Summary:
In this project, the goal is to see if Bacillus safensis (bacteria) on iron shavings increase or decrease in microgravity. Bacillus safensis is common in dust and on surfaces in most indoor settings. It can linger on surfaces and potentially be harmful inside spacecraft. According to an article posted by Indiana Public Media, “Bacillus safensis was so far not harmful to astronauts in space”. “The bacteria was previously tested in space and was shown to have grown by at least 60% in microgravity, but was not reported as being harmful”. The bacteria is considered non-harmful on Earth, but still grows in “inhospitable” places and could be able to live on Mars. If this project is successful, it will help astronauts see if there’s bacteria they must be careful about when building in space. The experiment uses a Type 3 FME with the first section filled with 3ml of Bacillus safensis, the second section with 3 ml of iron shavings, and the third section with 2 ml or formalin. Within the first week of the experiment in microgravity, the astronauts will unclamp the section that was blocking the bacteria and the iron shavings. In the last week the astronauts will unclamp
the section with the formalin and gently mix them together. The hypothesis is that the bacteria will grow and become erosive or destructive to metal. If the hypothesis is supported, then different materials can be chosen before building starts.
Germination of Spinach on the ISS
Grade 6, iForward Public Online Charter School, Grantsburg School District
Co-Principal Investigators: Cory Berge, Olivia Chase, Essence Johnson, Victor Morris, Daniele Thomas, Gabriel Stanaway
Co-Investigators: Jaxon LeRay, Jazzmyn Sargent
Teacher Facilitators: Shelby Hemmersbach and Jennifer Bennett
Proposal Summary:
Our goal is to determine whether spinach can properly germinate on the International Space Station. If spinach could properly germinate, it would be beneficial to astronauts for a variety of reasons. Spinach benefits many things with its rich minerals and nutrients. Spinach
contains calcium, iron, folate, potassium, and minerals A, C, and K. These minerals can help fight against common problems such as bone deterioration in microgravity. All of this could be beneficial for future space exploration and colonization. We are using a type three Fluids Mixing Enclosure tube, a tube that will be separated into three sections by clamps. In the first volume, there will be 2.9 mL of distilled water. The second volume will have 3 spinach seeds and the third volume will have 2.5 mL of formalin. Upon arrival at the International Space Station, clamp A will be unclamped and shaken gently for 5 seconds. Before releasing the clamp B, the spinach plant should have germinated. Then, on the day before departure, the clamp B will be removed, exposing the germinated spinach plant to a dose of formalin, causing the plant to stop growing and be preserved. The hypothesis is that the spinach plant will remain mostly the same, but the stem perhaps warped in some way, due to the microgravity. We also predict that if leaves manage to grow in the micro-gravitational environment during their time on the International Space Station, they will be different in some way.