What is the International Space Station? ISS's Tasks and Objectives

Protein crystal studies:

More pure protein crystals may be grown in space than on Earth. Analysis of these crystals helps scientists better understand the nature of proteins, enzymes and viruses, perhaps leading to the development of new drugs and a better understanding of the fundamental building blocks of life. This type of research could lead to the study of treatments for cancer, diabetes, emphysema and immune system disorders, and others.

Tissue culture:

Living cells can be grown in a laboratory environment in space where they are not distorted by gravity. NASA already has developed a Bioreactor device.

Life in low gravity:

The effects of long-term exposure to reduced gravity on humans & weakening muscles; changes in how the heart, arteries and veins work; and the loss of bone density, among others, will be studied aboard the station. Studies of these effects may lead to a better understanding of the body's systems and similar ailments on Earth. A thorough understanding of such effects and possible methods of counteracting them is needed to prepare for future long-term human exploration of the solar system. In addition, studies of the gravitational effects on plants, animals and the function of living cells will be conducted aboard the station.

Flames, fluids and metal in space:

Fluids, flames, molten metal and other materials will be the subject of basic research on the station. Even flames burn differently without gravity. Scientists plan to study this field, called Materials Science, to create better metal alloys and more perfect materials for applications such as computer chips. The study of all of these areas may lead to developments that can enhance many industries on Earth.

Some experiments aboard the station will take place on the exterior of the station modules:

Some experiments will study the basic forces of nature, a field called Fundamental Physics, where experiments take advantage of weightlessness to study forces that are weak and difficult to study when subject to gravity on Earth. Experiments in this field may help explain how the universe developed. Investigations that use lasers to cool atoms to near absolute zero may help us understand gravity itself. In addition to investigating basic questions about nature, this research could lead to down-to-Earth developments that may include clocks a thousand times more accurate than today's atomic clocks; better weather forecasting; and stronger materials.

Earth from Above:

Observations of the Earth from orbit help the study of large-scale, long-term changes in the environment. The effects of volcanoes, ancient meteorite impacts, hurricanes and typhoons can be studied. In addition, changes to the Earth that are caused by the human race can be observed. The effects of air pollution, such as smog over cities; of deforestation, the cutting and burning of forests; and of water pollution, such as oil spills, are visible from space and can be captured in images that provide a global perspective unavailable from the ground.