BIOPACK: the ground controlled late access biological research facility.

Area of Science:

• Space biology
• Gravitational biology
• Life sciences research

Background:

• International Space Station (ISS) assembly missions require efficient use of limited resources for biological experiments.
• The Space Shuttle's Middeck is a suitable platform for conducting science during these missions.
• Existing facilities may not meet all needs for late-access, versatile biological research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the BIOPACK, a versatile Middeck Locker-based research facility for gravitational biology studies.
• To highlight its capabilities for conducting biological experiments under controlled conditions during space missions.
• To demonstrate its utility as a late-access laboratory for space research.

Main Methods:

• The BIOPACK facility utilizes a compact, two-Middeck Locker design.
• It offers controlled temperatures for diverse biological cultures (bacteria, plants, invertebrates, mammals).
• Three independent centrifuges provide variable gravity (0 to 2.0 x g) with a 1.0 x g reference, plus temperature-controlled storage (-10°C and +4°C).

Main Results:

• The BIOPACK successfully flew on STS-107, demonstrating its functionality.
• It includes a glovebox (GBX) for enhanced sample containment and passive temperature-controlled units (PTCU).
• The system supports automated startup and telecommanding for remote monitoring and adjustments.

Conclusions:

• BIOPACK provides a versatile, late-access research cabinet for biological experiments in microgravity and controlled hyper/hypogravity.
• It addresses the need for specialized research tools on STS missions, complementing ISS facilities.
• Its capabilities enhance the scope and efficiency of space-based biological research.