Science on the Space Station with NASA Astronaut Jessica Watkins

Biotechnology Operations in Orbit

Working aboard the International Space Station, NASA astronaut and Expedition 75 flight engineer Jessica Watkins carried out pivotal biotechnology procedures inside the Kibo laboratory module. The orbital laboratory offers an exceptional microgravity environment to investigate how cellular structures and biomaterials behave when freed from the influence of Earth's gravity.

Bioink Integration and Bioprinter Cartridge Preparation

On Oct. 9, 2026, working inside the secure Life Science Glovebox of the Kibo module, Watkins carefully mixed living cell samples with a formulated bioink. Following the mixing phase, she transferred the cellular suspension into a specialized printing cartridge. These operations form a central component of the InSPA-Auxilium Bioprinter-Cell Printing scientific investigation.

Advancing Space Medicine and Regenerative Technologies

The InSPA-Auxilium Bioprinter-Cell Printing study focuses on evaluating the viability and precision of 3D bioprinting living cells in weightlessness. Insights gained from these experiments may enhance tissue engineering for long-duration deep space exploration missions while contributing to advances in regenerative medicine on Earth.