Science in Microgravity: Expedition 73 Research and Crew Operations on the ISS

Orbital Research and Crew Operations Aboard the International Space Station

An orbital sunrise illuminated Earth’s atmosphere and cloud tops in a photograph captured from the International Space Station as it orbited approximately 264 miles above the Czech Republic in Eastern Europe

NASA Flight Engineer Zena Cardman dedicated her day to human research activities, including blood sample processing, cognitive assessments, and physical exercise. With assistance from NASA Flight Engineer Jonny Kim, she performed a blood draw, centrifuged the samples, and stored them in a science freezer for future analysis. She later completed a computerized spatial cognition test as part of the CIPHER study, which monitors astronaut health before, during, and after spaceflight. Cardman concluded her research activities by exercising on the Advanced Resistive Exercise Device (ARED) and the station’s exercise cycle while wearing the Bio-Monitor system to assess aerobic and cardiovascular health.

Jonny Kim configured the Astrobee robotic free-flying assistants for ground-controlled remote operations, supporting research into autonomous and remote robotic functions that reduce astronaut workload. He also trained Roscosmos Flight Engineer Sergey Kud-Sverchkov on the operation of the ARED. In addition, Kim continued packing personal equipment in preparation for his return to Earth aboard the Soyuz MS-27 spacecraft on December 8 with cosmonauts Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritsky.

Sergey Ryzhikov assisted Sergei Mikaev and Sergey Kud-Sverchkov in adapting to station life by demonstrating tools, operational procedures, and systems in the Roscosmos segment. Ryzhikov and Zubritsky also continued loading cargo, organizing personal equipment, and cleaning crew quarters aboard the Soyuz MS-27 in preparation for their departure.

NASA Flight Engineer Mike Fincke photographed cryogenic fluid behavior inside the Microgravity Science Glovebox to support improvements in spacecraft fuel tank design. He later assisted NASA Flight Engineer Chris Williams with familiarization training on station hardware and systems. Before the end of his shift, Fincke conducted a thermal insulation inspection throughout the Tranquility module.

JAXA astronaut Kimiya Yui worked inside the Kibo laboratory module troubleshooting a carbon dioxide removal experiment that will help develop next-generation life-support systems for Artemis spacecraft. He later supported cargo operations inside the Cygnus XL space freighter, unpacking and stowing scientific payloads and crew provisions.

Roscosmos Flight Engineer Oleg Platonov began his day by downloading Earth imagery captured automatically overnight. He later participated in a respiratory study by wearing acoustic sensors to measure airflow and lung function. Platonov concluded his activities by collecting radiation exposure data and analyzing cabin air samples for ammonia and carbon dioxide levels.