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      NASA and Northrop Grumman are preparing to send the company’s next cargo mission to the International Space Station, flying research to support Artemis missions to the Moon and human exploration of Mars and beyond, while improving life on Earth. SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket will launch Northrop Grumman’s 23rd commercial resupply services mission to the orbiting laboratory.
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      Dutta highlighted that three independent parties validated microgravity’s benefits for growing semiconductor crystals and that the commercial value of microgravity-enhanced crystals could be worth more than $1 million per kilogram (2.2 pounds).
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      Lethal light
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      Sowing seeds for pharmaceuticals
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      Keeping fuel cool
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      The test could provide insights that help improve the design of lightweight, efficient, long-term in-space cryogenic storage systems for future deep space exploration missions.
      Learn more about the ZBOT-NC experiment. 
      Download high-resolution photos and videos of the research highlighted in this feature.
      Learn more about the research aboard the International Space Station at:
      www.nasa.gov/iss-science
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    • By NASA
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      A robot for space and the workplace

      Myron (Ron) Diftler led the team behind Robonaut 2 (R2), a humanoid robot developed with General Motors. The goal was to create a robot that could help humans both in space and on the factory floor. The R2 robot became the first humanoid robot in space aboard the International Space Station, and part of its technology was licensed for use on Earth, leading to a grip-strengthening robotic glove to help humans with strenuous, repetitive tasks. From factories to space exploration, Diftler’s work has real-world impact. 

      Some of the toughest electronic chips on and off Earth

      Technology developed to one day explore the surface of Venus has to be tough enough to survive the planet where temperatures hit 860°F and the atmosphere is akin to battery acid. Philip Neudeck’s silicon carbide integrated circuits don’t just work — they ran for over 60 days in simulated Venus-like conditions. On Earth, these chips can boost efficiency in wireless communication systems, help make drilling for oil safer, and enable more practical electric vehicles. 
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      Hydrogen sensors that could go the distance on other worlds

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      Today, Weiser serves as director of the Facilities and Real Estate Division at NASA Headquarters, overseeing the foundation of NASA’s missions. Whether it’s advancing research or optimizing real estate across the agency, he’s helping launch the future, one facility at a time.

      Want to learn more about NASA’s game changing innovations? Visit the NASA Inventors Hall of Fame.
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