Payloads
Astrobee: The crew powered off the Astrobee free flyers and placed temp stowed items back in their original positions in the JEM module. Astrobee is made up of three free-flying, cube-shaped robots which are designed to help scientists and engineers develop and test technologies for use in microgravity to assist astronauts with routine chores, and give ground controllers additional eyes and ears on the space station. The autonomous robots, powered by fans and vision-based navigation, perform crew monitoring, sampling, logistics management, and accommodate up to three investigations.
Myotones (Muscle Tone in Space): The crew performed a session of Myotones Measurements using the Myotones device on ten specific muscle locations. Ultrasound measurements were also performed. Myotones investigation observes the biochemical properties of muscles during long-term exposure to the spaceflight environment. Results from this investigation are expected to provide insight into principles of human resting muscle tone, which could lead to the development of new strategies for alternative treatments for rehabilitation both on Earth and for future space missions.
Genes in Space-6: The crew moved samples from MELFI 2 to MELFI 3 in order to allow Genes in Space operations during the JEM module isolation timeframe. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage caused by increased exposure to radiation can affect the long-term health of astronauts. Genes in Space-6 determines the optimal DNA repair mechanisms that cells use in the spaceflight environment. The investigation evaluates the entire process in space for the first time by inducing DNA damage in cells and assessing mutation and repair at the molecular level using the miniPCR and the Biomolecule Sequencer tools aboard the space station.
Systems
Emergency Simulation On Board Training (OBT): Today, the crew participated in a training exercise for ISS fire and rapid depressurization emergency scenarios. The emergency training consisted of crew and ground controllers utilizing simulator data to identify each of the emergency scenarios and executing the appropriate response procedure(s). During the exercise, the crew physically translated through ISS to the appropriate response locations to visualize the use of equipment and interfaces. The teams also practiced communication and coordination with the mission control centers in Houston and Moscow for each scenario. A post-simulation crew conference was conducted to discuss and evaluate the crew/ground control responses during the training exercise.
USOS Isolation Gather: Today, the crew gathered items to be transferred to the Russian segment for the upcoming USOS isolation period. The ECLS Community has been tracking an increase in nominal atmosphere leakage since September 2019. The crew will close several module hatches tomorrow in order for the ground team to monitor pressures throughout the weekend. The crew will remain isolated in the Russian Segment (SM/MRM2/Soyuz/Progress) until Monday afternoon.
Completed Task List Activities:
- USOS Isolation Gather (on-going)
Today’s Ground Activities:
All activities are complete unless otherwise noted.
- IAS Comm Config for OBT
- MSS File Uplinks for MSS 10.1 transition
- Ground Ops in preparation for module isolation
- Thermal Amine Swingbed weekly vent
Look Ahead Plan
Friday, 8/21 (GMT 234)
Payloads:
- Radi-N2 Retrieve (CSA)
Systems:
- WHC Ops Break
- USOS Isolation Gather/Transfer
- USOS Egress
Saturday, 8/22 (GMT 235)
Payloads:
- Off-duty
Systems:
- Crew Off Duty
Sunday, 8/23 (GMT 236)
Payloads:
- Off-duty
Systems:
- Crew Off Duty
Today’s Planned Activities:
All activities are complete unless otherwise noted.
- USOS Isolation Gather
- ТБУ (Universal Bioengineering Thermostat). Checking ТБУ-В No.07 thermostat temperature and unobstructed area near ТБУ-В inlet/outlet vents
- Vacuum pressure gauge readings check
- URAGAN. SOVA PL and photo equipment closeout ops and stowage
- Equipment gathering for isolation period
- COLUMBUS Bay 1, 2, 3 clean-up
- Gas Analyzer activation in Soyuz 745
- Pressurization of Elektron-VM Liquid Unit before Activation
- Myotones Measurements
- Myotones Ultrasound scan using Echo Unit
- Myotones Device Data Transfer
- Performing MRM1 Isolation
- Performing DC1+Progress 444 (76P) Isolation
- Comm Configuration from MRM2
- Space suit and БСС leak check. Telemetry checkout of Orlan systems, Orlan I/F unit (БСС), comm, and biomed parameters from MRM2
- MELFI Sample Transfer
- Training for Emergency Response On-board ISS
- UF-ATMOSFERA. Hardware and electrical connections setup, PL activation and hardware check
- INTERACTION-2. Experiment Ops
- On-board Training (OBT) ISS Emergency Drill Conference
- Astrobee Off