Overview

As the week unfolds aboard the International Space Station (ISS), excitement is mounting among the Expedition 72 crew as they gear up for an anticipated spacewalk and embark on numerous fascinating research initiatives in both physics and biology.

Spacewalk Preparations

Starting the week off on Monday, Roscosmos Flight Engineers Alexey Ovchinin and Ivan Vagner are focused on intensive preparations for a spacewalk scheduled for December 19. The duo plans to exit through the Poisk module's airlock at approximately 10:10 a.m. EST, dedicating over six hours to critical tasks. Among their responsibilities will be the removal of external scientific experiments and the relocation of equipment linked to the European robotic arm, a significant apparatus that enhances the station’s capabilities.

To ensure their readiness, the cosmonauts meticulously tested their hand grip strength - a crucial aspect for handling delicate tasks while encased in bulky Orlan spacesuits. They also conducted checks on their suits' life support components, including oxygen supply and waste management systems, critical for their safety during the upcoming mission.

U.S. Side Activities

On the U.S. side of the station, Commander Suni Williams and Flight Engineer Don Pettit were equally busy with spacesuit maintenance, working in the Quest airlock to clean cooling loops, inspect life support systems, and verify communication equipment. Their diligent preparations pave the way for additional extravehicular activities (EVAs) planned for early 2025, ensuring that all systems are go for future ventures.

Additionally, Williams took part in an essential vision test with NASA Flight Engineer Butch Wilmore, utilizing an eye chart to monitor eye health in the unique microgravity environment. She remained engaged in scientific research as well, imaging colloid samples under a fluorescence microscope to understand gel formation better.

Tool Organization and Educational Outreach

Pettit, with assistance from Wilmore, worked on reorganizing tools and transferring equipment from the Permanent Multipurpose Module to the Zarya module, ensuring that everything was optimally stored for efficient access during research and operations.

Wilmore also turned his attention to educational outreach, capturing stunning photographs of CubeSats recently deployed outside the Kibo laboratory module, which serves as part of a broader initiative aimed at inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers.

Biological Research and Health Monitoring

Meanwhile, NASA Flight Engineer Nick Hague shifted his focus to biological research and health monitoring by utilizing the advanced resistive exercise device and engaging in jogging sessions on the COLBERT treadmill. His commitment extended for 48 hours with a Bio-Monitor headband and vest designed to gather physiological data during his exertions. Hague also set up research incubators within the Columbus laboratory module to facilitate ongoing scientific experiments.

Advanced Physics Research

Contributing to the advanced physics research, Roscosmos Flight Engineer Aleksandr Gorbunov dove into diagnostics for the Plasma Kristall-4 experiment. This cutting-edge research investigates state-of-the-art space physics methods with significant implications for future spacecraft design. Gorbunov dedicated time to reviewing robotic and spacecraft piloting techniques - essential knowledge for future planetary exploration missions.

Conclusion

As the ISS crew pushes the boundaries of human knowledge and endurance in space, the world watches in anticipation. With innovative research and preparations for upcoming spacewalks, the week promises to be nothing short of extraordinary! Stay tuned for more updates from this incredible hub of scientific discovery!