DEUTSCH

The Laboratory in Space
Currently, 14 nations cooperate in the operation of a common laboratory in space: the International Space Station (ISS).
This is the biggest scientific project in the history of mankind. It proves that a peaceful international utilization of space for the benefit for all partners is both possible and sensible. Since their first arrival at the ISS on November 2, 2000, astronauts have been supporting science on board, including several excellent scientific experiments from Germany. The ISS partners are USA, Russia, a total of 10 European countries, Canada and Japan. With its space laboratory COLUMBUS built in Germany, Europe has been permanently present on board the ISS since February 11, 2008.

 
 
Columbus
The gravitational force is omnipresent on Earth. All physical, chemical and biological processes occur under these prevailing conditions. Obviously, gravity plays an important role: matter falls to the ground, water flows downhill and warm air rises upwards. But sometimes, the influence of gravity in natural and technical processes is not as obvious though it is of profound importance. As an always constant value, it influenced the evolution of life: Gravity and life have been intermingled inseparably on our planet for three and a half billion years. In view of thiscscientific research under space conditions is necessary for all important areas of Medicine, Biology, Physics and Material Sciences.
   

"Space conditions" are defined as: microgravity (or more generally, altered gravitational conditions), vacum and a different radiation spectrum to that experienced on Earth. The program "Research under Space conditions" as part of the German Space program supports investigations on the influence of space conditions. New insights in science and technology are obtained and lead to innovative applications for mankind on Earth. With research under space conditions the DLR pursues 4 goals:

  • Investigation of basic vital functions
  • Development of new medical diagnostic methods and therapies
  • Pushing the limits of the Physical Sciences
  • Increase innovative Material research
   

Since life on Earth exists under the permanent influence of gravity, its importance for most of the vital functions can only be investigated in weightlessness. Scientists observe reactions, adaptation of metabolism and biological processes under these conditions: why do plant roots grow to the geocenter, but the shoot in the opposite direction to the light? Space experiments enable scientists to better understand the mechanisms of perception and processing of gravitational forces, from prokaryote to humans. This is not only important for basic research, for example for understanding the signal processing in general, but also for biotechnical processes. In addition, Space experiments increase our knowledge on the origin, evolution and distribution of life, on our planet Earth and beyond.