KIWI - YOUR TICKET TO MICROGRAVITY - YOUR COMMERCIAL SERVICE PROVIDER FOR MICROGRAVITY RESEARCH AND APPLICATIONS - kiwi microgravity
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YOUR Ticket to microgravity KIWI – YOUR TICKET TO MICROGRAVITY YOUR COMMERCIAL SERVICE PROVIDER FOR MICROGRAVITY RESEARCH AND APPLICATIONS
FOREWORD
The commercial use of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and especially of the International
Space Station (ISS) is sustainably increasing mainly promoted by NASA and CASIS
via their Space Act Agreements (SAA), but also via ESA and the permanent calls for
private public partnerships (PPP). As a result, the new space market is more and
more changing from a seller’s market into a buyer’s market, especially in the area of
scientific payloads, experiment facilities and microgravity services where the hurdles
of market entry get lower and lower.
kiwi started as an Airbus innovation project in 2015 and provides fast and easy
access to the full range of microgravity platforms to enable microgravity research
and applications by establishing new innovative approaches for business in this new
kiwi team space area. Three space engineers, Christian Bruderrek, Maria Birlem and Philipp
Schulien, are leading the technical activities, supported by Noemie Bernede who is in
charge of the marketing strategy. In addition, kiwi is supported for technical activities
by several Airbus engineers. kiwi core products are the ScienceBox on entry level, the
complete ScienceShell hardware portfolio, consisting of InnerShell (Experiment Insert)
and OuterShell (Experiment Container), as well as the ScienceTaxi experiment facility
coming in 2019.
kiwi was built upon the old my_biorack program that started already back in 2012.
kiwi follows a simple and ecological approach of reusing existing hardware to shorten
payload integration schedule and to provide cost efficient access to microgravity.
Even though the kiwi hardware portfolio is already flight-proved, it is continuously
extended and optimized to adapt to the individual needs of the customers and users.
Within the last years, kiwi had the opportunity to work and collaborate with several
partners such as ESA, DLR, Kayser Italia, Ice Cubes, STaARS, Space Tango and many
others.
kiwi shall be the one-point-of-contact service provider for all applications related
to microgravity and all microgravity platforms. This includes a variety of platforms
with diverse characteristics, costs and complexity ranging from clinostats, random
positioning machines, drop-towers, parabolic flights, sub-orbital flights (sounding
rockets) to orbital flights (e.g. International Space Station). kiwi is providing its own
hardware portfolio on a loan basis and facilities on leasing concept but also includes
and combines services and products from cooperation partners listed above to offer
the largest possible portfolio of microgravity opportunities.
kiwi and its funding network also invests into new potential microgravity application
fields to be prepared for the moment microgravity turns into a high scalable business.
The kiwi web-portal (www.kiwi-microgravity.com) provides further information about
microgravity research in general and about the kiwi philosophy, products and services
in particular.
“kiwi does not only focus on microgravity research opportunities, but shall be also a
place for creativity to establish new fields of microgravity applications and to raise the
awareness of commercial microgravity access in broaden public.”
kiwi is committed to its social responsibility and visits schools and universities on a
regular basis to enthuse the next generation with science in space.
Christian Bruderrek Maria Birlem Noemie Bernède Philipp Schulien
4 SUMMARY FOREWORD����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������3 MISSION OVERVIEW������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������5 KIWI INFRASTRUCTURE�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������6 kiwi Facilities 6 kiwi Controllers 10 kiwi OuterShell 12 kiwi Observation Unit 14 INNERSHELLS��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 16 Plunger Unit 16 Closed Ecosystem 18 Greenhouse20 Mini Aquarium/Space petri dishes 22 Type IV 24 Type V 26 Beta Box 28 CUSTOMIZED SOLUTIONS���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 30 HERITAGE����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 32 ACKNOWLEDEGMENTS��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 33
5
MISSION OVERVIEW
The kiwi compatible facilities are operated under of the launch this time span can decrease to 6
kiwi cooperation partners‘ Space Act Agreement month. The standardized OuterShells are also
with NASA as part of NASA‘s National Laboratory compatible with other on-board ISS facilities
on the International Space Station. This allows such as Readers, Microscopes, Freezers, etc.
a short term access to ISS, ideally within only This allows making use of broad band offers
1 year from the contract signing. Depending for sample preparation, storage and analyses
on the InnerShell selected and the availability devices.
Typical project flow with kiwi services
The hardware implementation activities are experiment will be stowed on-board ISS until its
performed by the SAA partners, which have return. On ground the hardware is uninstalled as
access to various launcher capacities and crew an early retrieval item, transported back to the
activities via the NASA Space Act Agreement. laboratories and handed over to the Principal
Typically the experiment will be launched Investigator (PI) to extract the scientific output
via Progress or SpaceX as late access item of the mission. Both late access and early
and stowed under the required temperature retrieval times are important to keep sensitive
conditions. Upon arrival to the ISS, the crew experiments under controlled conditions, but
unloads the experiment and installs it into they can vary pending on the launcher and
the kiwi compatible facility, which operates landing scenario.
fully autonomously. After the execution the
kiwi microgravity platforms
6
KIWI
INFRASTRUCTURE
KIWI FACILITIES
STAARS FACILITY
www.staars.space
info@staars.space
STaARS-1 facility and compatibility with kiwi hardware portfolio
ABOUT STAARS INC.
Space Technology and Advanced Research research conducted in the novel environment
Systems, Inc. (STaARS) is establishing advanced of microgravity. We provide our collaborating
biotechnology, biomedical and life science researchers of all levels a wide range of flight-
research programs on the International tested and proven hardware supported by
Space Station to improve the quality of life experts in extreme environment life science
of Earth. STaARS leads the microgravity R&D and biotechnology research. STaARS has
market through customer service, science and nearly two decades of NASA flight operations
operational expertise and hardware innovation. experience to support the researcher during
Our client research programs will foster drug their mission, providing project status updates
discovery and development, identify new and data retrieval from the ISS. Our engineering
therapeutics and enhance biofuel production team produces custom hardware designs and
through a better understanding of life construction to meet the current and future
processes. To help our clients accomplish these needs of the rapidly evolving biotechnology,
results, STaARS provides expert-level, hands- biomedical and life science fields. STaARS
on mentorship to assist academic, industry combines science, operations and engineering
and government researchers in experiment to deliver a complete service from project
design, project integration and management, inception through microgravity experimentation
payload operations and engineering, safety to product commercialization in the most unique
verification, discovery commercialization and environment humanity has ever experienced.
product marketing for applied and pure science
7
MAIN FEATURES
With STaARS-1 facility, STaARS offer a With this new STaARS-1 facility, the researcher
platform for microgravity investigations is able to take advantage of the large
with a centrifuge for gravitational research, ScienceShell hardware portfolio of already
which is fully compatible to the complete existing InnerShells (Experiment Inserts) and
ScienceShell hardware portfolio. Therefore, OuterShells (Experiment Containers) satisfying
the STaARS-1 advanced scientific platform nearly all modern molecular, cellular and organic
allows a continuation of the research initiated investigations in biomedical and biotechnical
on the former BIORACK Infrastructure. The fields.
platform is operated under the STaARS Space
Act Agreement with NASA as part of NASA‘s STaARS-1 facility consists of a three-row
National Laboratory on the International Space microgravity rack and a variable speed centrifuge.
Station. Key features include: The centrifuge and each row in the μg-rack can
host up to six OuterShells with InnerShells that
1.) remote Experiment control, can be commanded by the Facility Controllers
2.) remote access to generated data (KAB and / or Control Unit).
3.) variable speed centrifuge control and
4.) temperature control
HARDWARE SPECIFICATION:
• Centrifuge can host up to 6 ScienceShell experiments, consisting of InnerShell and OuterShell
• Each row on the μg-rack can host up to 6 ScienceShells (18 in total)
• Two kinds of Facility Controllers (KAB and / or Control Unit) are available to command the InnerShells
• Power I/F for active experiments (12 V and 5 V; continuous and / or switchable)
• LAN Ethernet connectivity
• USB I/F for experiment handling and HK-data
• Ground commanding capabilities
• Down-link capabilities
• Data storage capabilities
• Variable speed centrifuge from 0.4g - 2.5g
• ambient to 37°C
QUALIFICATION STATUS: R PERMANENTLY INSTALLED ON ISS (END OF 2016)
8
TANGOLAB-1 FACILITY OVERVIEW
TangoLab-1 facility and compatibility with kiwi hardware portfolio
ABOUT SPACE TANGO
Space Tango designs and builds integrated
systems that facilitates microgravity research
and manufacturing focused for application on
Earth, particularly in the area of biomedicine
and drug design (exomedicine). The unique www.spacetango.com
offering allows users to focus on their research
while Space Tango manages the complexities of
traveling to and operating in microgravity. The
TangoLab-1 is a fully automated system allowing
multiple experiments to run simultaneously and
independently. TangoLab-1 was installed on the
International Space Station in mid-2016. Space
Tango‘s vision only starts with TangoLab-1;
Space Tango is developing an entire pipeline of
products to increase the variety, volume and
ease of using microgravity.
9
MAIN FEATURES
TangoLab-1 is a reconfigurable experiment kiwi‘s ScienceBox embodies an inlay structure
ecosystem designed for microgravity research to make TangoLab-1 CubeLab modules fully
aboard the International Space Station (ISS). compatible to the complete kiwi ScienceShell
It provides a unique feature set, including hardware portfolio. Therefore, the TangoLab-1
environmental telemetry, power consumption, allows a continuation of the research initiated
and real-time data and commanding capabilities on the former BIORACK Infrastructure. The
using an end-to-end, cloud-based customer platform is operated under the Space Tango
portal. TangoLab-1 is built by users, for users, to Space Act Agreement with NASA as part of
enable the solutions of tomorrow’s world, while NASA‘s National Laboratory on the International
orbiting today’s. Space Station.
Taking inspiration from the CubeSat community With this new TangoLab-1 facility, the
the TangoLab-1 uses the CubeLab standard as researcher is able to take advantage of the large
a baseline guide for design and development of kiwi ScienceShell hardware portfolio of already
experiments. Much like CubeSats, these cubes existing InnerShells and OuterShells satisfying
scale to 2U, 3U and even 8U sizes to fit customer nearly all modern molecular, cellular and organic
needs and include standoff feet to separate investigations in biomedical and biotechnical
themselves from their adjoined payload cards. fields.
HARDWARE SPECIFICATION (PER CUBELAB U):
• Size: 1U = 10 x 10 x 10 cm (4“ x 4“ x 4“)
• 2U, 3U, 4U or 7U are also available for more complex utilization
• Volume: 1 l (155 in³)
• Mass: up to 2 kg
• Power consumption: maximum 10 W,
provided by 3.3 V, 5 V and 12 V power lines
• Temperature: ambient
• Data collection: real time data collection
• Operational services: Telemetry, telecommands, cloud-based customer portal
QUALIFICATION STATUS: R PERMANENTLY INSTALLED ON ISS (MID OF 2016)
10
KIWI SCIENCESHELL CONTROLLERS
For STaARS-1 facility currently two different controllers. For the kiwi/ TangoLab-1 facility
flight qualified controllers are available to support Airbus developed a specific PCB board to connect
the autonomous execution of experiments. the experiments to the TangoLab main Payload
Each controller provides adequate software Card using than the TangoLab electrical and
for programming of timelines and controlling. data capabilities for autunomous experiment
Kayser Italia is developing and delivering those execution.
KAB – EXPERIMENT CONTROLLER
KAB – Experiment Controller (right side functional block diagram)
MAIN FEATURES
The KABs are assigned to control the electrical orbit, thus establishing an infrastructure for
functions of the experiment and represent the upcoming ScienceShell experiments. Many
electrical/commanding I/F towards the STaARS functions are available through an USB interface.
facility. These units can be reprogrammed in-
One KAB is capable to command three connected experiments and is programmed by adequate
software. The software runs on the microcontroller inside the KAB and is responsible for:
• Data acquisition from internal sensors and monitors (Housekeeping)
• Execution of scheduled actions (timeline)
• Data storage of HK data on the Micro-SD mass memory
• Communication with external devices using an USB data link
Eight KAB Experiment Controllers are permanently available on ISS to support the ScienceShells in
the STaARS facility.
CONTROLLER USAGE:
Cellbox Mission on SpaceX-3; April/Mai 2014
Cellbox 2 Mission on SpaceX-13; December 2017
Gene Control Prime Mission on SpaceX-15; June/July 2018
QUALIFICATION STATUS: R QUALIFIED FOR USE ON ISS
R PERMANENTLY INSTALLED ON ISS11
CONTROL UNIT (CU) – OBSERVATION UNIT
Control Unit (CU)
MAIN FEATURES
Two CUs are currently assigned to control kiwi experiments. One controller will be installed
up to 12 Observation Units that provide an on top of the centrifuge and the other on top of
observation and illumination system for coming the µg racks.
One CU is capable of commanding six connected Observation Units and is programmed by d edicated
software. The application software runs on the CPU inside the CU (Windows 7 OS) and is responsible
for:
• Data acquisition from internal sensors and housekeeping data
• Execution of scheduled actions (timeline)
• Data storage of recorded video and pictures on exchangeable SSDs
CONTROLLER USAGE:
Fruit Fly Lab Mission on Space-X 5, January 2015
QUALIFICATION STATUS: R QUALIFIED FOR USE ON ISS
R READY FOR FLIGHT ON ISS12
KIWI OUTERSHELLS (EXPERIMENT CONTAINER)
ScienceShells ready for launch ScienceShell: Implementation of InnerShell into OuterShell
Photo: Jesper Rais Photo: Jesper Rais
kiwi OuterShell portfolio
QUALIFICATION STATUS: R READY FOR FLIGHT ON ISS
R READY FOR FLIGHT ON UNMANNED CAPSULE MISSIONS13
MAIN FEATURES
The kiwi ScienceShell hardware portfolio consists on Spacelab missions D1 and D2 and STS
of various InnerShells (Experiment Inserts) and missions -67, -76, -81 and -86. OuterShells
OuterShells (Experiment Containers) which interfaces and capabilities were continuously
provide the interface to the facilities and support upgraded. SIMBOX for Shenzhou 8 offered
infrastructure. kiwi provides an extended continuous power for internal LEDs and pumps.
range of proven and qualified InnerShells and An OuterShell form factor based camera for
OuterShells. video observation is being realized for the kiwi
ScienceShell hardware portfolio.
The OuterShells are standardized for a variety
of experimental facilities ensuring that the The OuterShells interface mechanically and
OuterShells and the InnerShells that had electrically with the kiwi compatible facilities for
been developed for one facility can also be operations. The interface are simply clipped-in-
used within one of the others by following the place for operations.
same standard. The OuterShells have flown
Depending on the necessary experiment application, different types of OuterShells are available out
of the kiwi ScienceShell hardware portfolio, including:
• OuterShell standard type
• OuterShell for gas exchange via Teflon foil (retaining vapor)
• OuterShell with piggy bag for CO2 supply
• OuterShell with windows for illumination and observation
• OuterShell with Gore-Tex membrane for increased gas exchange
• OuterShell extended volumes
• OuterShell vented types14
KIWI OBSERVATION UNIT
Flies in Observation Unit
Cycle Observation by Day Observation Unit
MAIN FEATURES
The Observation Unit combines an OuterShell An illumination system dedicated to the camera
together with an observation system. system is designed to achieve the best picture
quality and is capable of simulating day-night
The container design is based on the OuterShell cycles, where infrared illumination is used for
container design out of the „Type-I“ container the night cycle observation.
family, which was used during numerous space
experiments since the first usage in BIORACK in Both, illumination and observation sequences,
the 1980s. An internal fan inside and a vented can be controlled by an adequate controller and
container design guarantees constant air flow software autonomously running a pre-defined
through the complete container interior. timeline that stores video and pictures to the
controller storage device.
The observation system consists of a camera in
combination with a fish-eye objective providing
nearly a 180° overview to enable behavioral
monitoring and to optimize analytic output.
The camera system is able to record video in
high definition (720p) at 15 frames per second.
QUALIFICATION STATUS: R QUALIFIED FOR USE ON ISS15
Pigtail
Illumination PCB
Fisheye objective
Reflector uEye camera
Camera Housing
Observation Unit – Observation and Illumination Sytem
HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS:
• The InnerShell shall not exceed the interior envelope of the closed Observation Unit (LxWxH): 78 x 38 x 25 mm
• Operational access to internal volume (InnerShell) in orbit (easy hatch opening design)
• High definition video recording (720p / 15 frame per second)
• Fish-eye objective for nearly 180° observation
• Illumination system (diffuse illumination) for day/night cycle simulation and observation (light tight container design)
• Vented container design for continuous air flow through the interior
• Compatible with CU kiwi Controller
• Empty mass of container is 190 gramms
OBSERVATION UNIT HAS BEEN USED FOR:
Fruit Fly Lab – Studying Fruit flies in space aboard the International Space Station
(SpaceX-5 Mission, Jan. 2015)
Investigator:
Sharmila Bhattacharya, NASA Ames Research Center, United States of America
Biological Material/Specimen:
Drosophila Melanogaster
Experiment Scope :
Fruit fly spaceflight experiments have contributed significantly to our understanding of the
effects of microgravity on biological processes that are directly relevant to humans in space.
Because of the fly’s short life-span, fruit fly studies provide information at the whole biological
system level about the effects of microgravity on the immune system, the development cycle
(birth, growth, reproduction, aging), and behavior.
Fruit Fly Lab will examine how microgravity and other aspects of the space environment affect
these insects, providing information relevant to long-term human spaceflight, in particular the
response to illness. Approximately 77% of the human disease genes have close matches in the
fruit fly genome.16
KIWI INNERSHELLS
(EXPERIMENT INSERTS)
PLUNGER UNIT
Insert „Plunger“
MAIN FEATURES
The InnerShell consists of a support structure PC), where the biological material is attached.
(housing made of PEEK), which includes three The housing is tightened by a silicon sealing
Culture Chambers (CCs) and six Supply Units (SU). and covered by an aluminium plate (cover),
Each CC has two Supply Units and represents which is fixed by screws. The container lid of the
an independent loop. The CCs are closed on the InnerShell is mounted to the housing to provide
top of the housing by Specimen Slides (made of an easy assembly for the PI.
HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS:
• The InnerShell shall not exceed the interior envelope of the closed EC: D imensions (LxWxH): 80 x 40 x 20 mm
• The bellows shall contain the volume: 620 μl
• The specimen slide shall contain a minimum surface (for cell cultivation) of: 28,1 x 19 mm
• The plungers shall be able to be activated by the electrical characteristics: U = 5V, I = 310 mA, min. t = 2.5 s
• The inner volume of the Culture Compartment shall be about: 213 μl
• The ScienceShell shall contain 6 supply units (plungers), two for one culture compartment each.
• Compatible with KAB Controller
• Compatible with Observation Unit
QUALIFICATION STATUS: R QUALIFIED FOR UNMANNED CAPSULE MISSION
R DESIGNED FOR USE ON ISS17
FUNCTION
The Plunger Unit has three CCs in which the cells plunger of each chamber is always activated
are mounted on slides. The chamber (covered by first. That means the first, the third and the
the window slide) contains the medium. With the fifth plunger will be activated first to have the
first activation, the medium will be exchanged by initial media exchange for all three chambers.
emptying the first plunger. The waste medium Later the other three plungers will be emptied to
will be pushed behind the empty plunger. All change the medium again. The waste material
plungers are emptied in this manner. For a better always flows behind the activated plunger.
comparison between the three CCs the first
First Plunger activated Fourth Plunger activated
INSERT HAS BEEN USED FOR:
Effect of microgravity on activation and function of monocytic/macrophageal cells
Innate Immunity in microgravity
Investigator:
Prof. Dr. med. Dr. rer. nat. Oliver Ullrich, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Germany
Biological Material/Specimen:
Human monocytic cells
Experiment Scope:
The proposed project aims to investigate the long-term effect of microgravity on key functions
of monocytic/ macrophageal cells, the antigen-presenting, phagocytosing immuno effector
cells of the immune system. For instance, differentiation of monocytic cells into macrophages
and the expression of adhesion molecules, which enable close contact to T cells and endothelial
cell surface, are crucial and indispensable processes in immune response.18
CLOSED ECOSYSTEM
Insert „Closed Ecosystem“
MAIN FEATURES
The closed ecological system was developed for monitor the number of species and their vitality
the SIMBOX mission under contract with DLR. It to obtain information about the stability of the
is composed of two aquatic chambers which are system. It contains a stirrer to distribute the
separated by a micro-membrane. The membrane specimens homogenously in the chamber before
can be chosen depending on the material which the measurements to avoid an inadequate
shall be exchanged between the compartments. measurement of aggregates.
It is equipped with fully automated sensors to
HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS:
• The InnerShell shall not exceed the interior envelope of the closed OuterShell: Dimensi-
ons (LxWxH): 80 x 40 x 35 mm
• The two Cultur Chambers shall have the following volumes: Top: 14.5 ml, Bottom: 40.27 ml
• The experiment has got illumination with the following number of LEDs and color: 6 low intensity LEDs for night
illumination (643nm), 6 high-intensity LEDs for day illumination (645nm).
• Biofoil shall enable gas exchange: Biofoil is modified according PI’s needs. Biofoil surface: 2280 mm²
• The stirrer shall have the following stirring speed: 130 min-1
• Detector shall detect changes in optical density of the specimen suspension
• Compatible with KAB Controller
QUALIFICATION STATUS: R QUALIFIED FOR UNMANNED CAPSULE MISSION
R DESIGNED FOR USE ON ISS19
FUNCTION
The Closed Ecosystem experiment uses a detecting unit. The detector and the LED are
closed aquatic system. Three to four different placed across the sample being attached to the
species are housed in 2 compartments, divided experiment chamber walls. The LED emits light
by a gas-permeable membrane to ensure gas of a certain wavelength and intensity which
exchange. The lower compartment with e.g. then is partially absorbed by the sample. The
Euglena is equipped with illumination, a stirrer transmitted light is measured by the detector.
for circulation and a measuring device for optical An amplifier converts the photocurrent into
density measurements. a voltage, which finally is converted by the
microcontroller into a digital readout value and
The Density Measurement Unit (DMU) is a stored in the non-volatile memory. From the
small one-channel absorbance reader. Its transmitted light intensity, the microbe density
purpose is to determine the microbe density in can be inferred mathematically.
a biological sample within the specified volume
of the Ecosystem experiment chamber by For ground use contactless oxygen measurement
measuring the light absorbed by the sample. A is possible with this device.
microcontroller controls all the device‘s. A high
power LED is used as the excitationlight source
and a very sensitive photodiode serves as the
Gas Exchange Activation of Stirrer and Lightsource
INSERT HAS BEEN USED FOR:
Study on closed aquatic ecological systems
Investigator:
Dr. Michael Lebert, University Erlangen, Germany
Prof. Liu Yongding, Institute of Hydrobiology, CAS, Wuhan China
Biological Material/Specimen:
Euglena gracilis, Gobiocypris rarus
Experiment Scope:
For the Joint experiment it is planned to use a closed aquatic system. It is intended to have 3–4
different species in two compartments, which are divided by a gas-permeable membrane to
ensure the gas exchange. The lower compartment with Euglena is equipped with illumination,
a stirrer for circulation and a measuring device for optical density measurements.20
GREENHOUSE
Insert „Greenhouse“
MAIN FEATURES
The Greenhouse InnerShell was developed for in order to avoid an inhomogeneous growth
the SIMBOX mission under contract with DLR. of the plant. Especially during the first stage
of the growth special housing shapes allows a
It shall support the growth of higher plants sufficient illumination (light spot) on the surface
under μg-conditions in solid media (agar or soil). of the agar. Gas-permeable membranes ensure
It has a dedicated illumination system which is the gas exchange with low loss of humidity.
homogeneous over the height of the chamber
HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS:
• The InnerShell does not exceed the interior envelope of the closed OuterShell 80,3 x 42,6 x 21,6 mm
• The Experiment has got glued-on Biofoil at 2 sides with the following size on each side: Biofoil surface: 2110 mm²
• Compatible with KAB Controller
• Compatible with Observation Unit
QUALIFICATION STATUS: R QUALIFIED FOR UNMANNED CAPSULE MISSION
R DESIGNED FOR USE ON ISS21
FUNCTION
The Greenhouse can be used to grow plants.
The seedlings are planted on Agar in the Agar
container. The Biofoil walls allow steady gas
exchange, and with the LED panel a day/night
cycle can be performed. The only electrical
activation for this InnerShell is the light function.
Greenhouse Block Diagram Rice plant inside Greenhouse
INSERT HAS BEEN USED FOR:
Metabolism of higher plant in space (Oryza sativa)
Investigator:
Prof. Wen Xiaogang, Institute of Botany, CAS, Beijing
Biological Material/Specimen:
Oryza sativa L. (rice) seed
Experiment Scope:
Plant photosynthesis is the basis and the indispensable component of a controlled ecological
life support system. Understanding the development of the photosynthetic apparatus and its
functioning under microgravity is an important role in space research. Our purpose is to further
understand how the photosynthetic and other metabolic functions of higher plants are affec-
ted under spaceflight conditions.
Rice seeds are planted in agar medium 1 day before the space ship launches. Seeds germinate
and grow in the space.22
MINI AQUARIUM/SPACE PETRI DISHES
petri dishes: 4 Chambers petri dishes: 8 Chambers Insert „Mini Aquarium“
MAIN FEATURES
The Mini Aquarium InnerShell consists of a two are bigger than the others. The systems
support structure (housing) which is covered allow easy access for experiment preparation.
by a gas permeable membrane (Biofoil) and
closed with a metal frame. One of the housings The housings of the Mini Aquariums provide a
is divided into 4 Chambers, 2 large ones and safe containment of the specimen. The specimen
2 small ones with a ratio of 2:1. The frame is is mounted on a polycarbonate slide. For easier
mounted with screws and corner stones. handling the slide is equipped with a placement
aiding screw system. A sealing tightens the
The second passive housing consists of a Culture Chamber and prevents leakage. A gas
support structure (housing) which is covered permeable membrane (Biofoil) provides the
on both sides by a gas permeable membrane required gas exchange of the Culture Chambers
(Biofoil) and closed with a metal frame. The with the environment.
housing is divided into two times 4 CCs, where
HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS:
• The InnerShell shall not exceed the interior envelope of the closed EC 80.3 x 42.6 x 32.4 mm or the envelope
of the closed EC 80.3 x 42.6 x 31.6 mm
• There are versions with 4 Culture Chambers, they shall have the following sizes: 2 x Small: 5.83 ml, 2 x Large:
11.66 ml other versions have 2 sides (bottom and top), each consists of 4 Culture Chambers with the following
sizes: 2 x Small: 6.59 ml, 2 x Large: 6.62 ml
• One Biofoil sheet with one metal cover frame, Biofoil surface: 2 x Large: 720 mm², 2 x Small: 360 mm²
• Passive, no Controller required
QUALIFICATION STATUS: R QUALIFIED FOR UNMANNED CAPSULE MISSION
R DESIGNED FOR USE ON ISS23
FUNCTION
The samples are enclosed in the housing. between the two passive experiments is the size
Throughout the whole mission there is gas of the CCs, and the second passive housing has
exchange between the gas permeable membrane chambers on both sides. No electrical connection
and the outer environment. The only difference is required, because there is no need for activation.
Block Diagram with 8 separate space petridishes
INSERT HAS BEEN USED FOR:
Synergistic effects of space radiation and microgravity on Drosophila and C. elegans
Investigator: Prof. Sun Yeqing, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian
Biological Material/Specimen: Drosophila and C. elegans
Experiment Scope
Samples of Drosophila in egg stage (2 strains) and C. elegans in Dauer stage (2 strains) are
chosen in this experiment. They will be divided into two groups, one group in aquarium with 4
chambers container (in μg environment), while another group in 1-g rotational aquarium with 4
chambers container. The samples will be cultured in containers throughout the flight. They will
be collected when the mission ended for further research. Ground-based research including
simulated irradiation and microgravity treatment on the same samples will be conducted at
the same time.
All these samples will be collected for genetic and epigenetic research on systemic level to
reveal the biological synergistic effects of space radiation and microgravity.
Spaceflight effects on microbial growth and metabolism
Investigator: Prof. Huang Ying , Institute of Microbiology, CAS, Beijing
Biological Material/Specimen: Bacillus subtilis, Streptomyces sp.
Experiment Scope
Microbes have the ability to sense and respond quickly to environmental changes. This pro-
perty, as well as the convenience of handling and short life cycle of microorganisms, makes
microbes excellent research materials for spaceflight. Although spaceflight conditions are
known to have profound effects on numerous microbial parameters, the mechanisms by which
these occur are unknown. This experiment is designed to investigate the effects of spaceflight
on the growth and metabolism of spore-forming prokaryotic microorganisms, and to probe
into the molecular mechanisms of the effects. Cells will be inoculated on agar or in broth in the
cultivation chambers of EC, which will be loaded into SIMBOX on ShenZhou-8. The cells will go
through their life cycle in space. Cells will be recovered alive for morphological, physiological
and genetic analyses.24
TYPE IV
InnerShell Type IV
Photo: Jesper Rais
MAIN FEATURES
The fully automated Type IV InnerShell was adherent cells on slides and non-adherent cells
developed for the SIMBOX mission under in media experimentation requiring automated
contract of DLR. The hardware was qualified and liquid injection without any disturbing crew
re-used for the ISS SpaceX-3 mission within the interaction.
project CellBox.
The Type IV InnerShell consists also of a support
It shall serve experiments with cell cultures which structure. The housing is made of PEEK, but
need to be in a medium and require enrichment differs from the Type V, as it has only one
of the media with fresh nutrients as well as a chamber. Moreover the Type IV InnerShell
sample fixation. Contents of two tanks, which contains a pump and two tanks. That means
can be filled with any liquid, can be automatically there is the possibility of two liquid changes.
pumped into the experiment volume. It can be Since this is an aquatic system with liquid inside
equipped with single slides as well as with self- the window is a solid Makrolon window. The
made customized inserts or without any at all. flowing directions are managed by a tubing
It has been proven to be optimal for both system with valves. This pump is able to pump
in two directions.
HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS:
• The InnerShell does not exceed the interior envelope of the closed EC. Dimensions (LxWxH): 84,5 x 40 x 30 mm
• The Culture Chamber has the following volume: 13,5 ml ± 0,3 ml
• The mini-pump has a flow rate of ≥2,43 ml/min
• The mini-pump has a power consumption of ≤ 70 mA
• The Window has the size of 77,26 x 37,26 mm
• The tanks have a volume each of 11,5 ml ± 0,3 ml
• Compatible with KAB Controller
QUALIFICATION STATUS: R QUALIFIED FOR USE ON ISS
R READY FOR FLIGHT ON ISS25
FUNCTION
The biological material inside the CC is stored in unit before experiment start and liquid which
a liquid. The pump activation starts the first fluid will be replaced within the chamber lize the
exchange. same unit.
The fluid exchange (in order to feed and/or to Each unit has two septa ports which are used for
fixate the biological material) within Type IV filling before experiment start and withdrawal of
experiments is an automated process. Two waste fluid after experiment run. Furthermore,
Fixative Units (A and B), each containing about each Fixative Unit has one tube cup with an
12.3 ml of fluid, are placed beneath the Culture integrated non-return valve. The flow direction of
Chamber (V=12.9 ml). Each Fixative Unit consists the non-return valve in Fixative Unit B is opposite
of three main parts: an upper shell, a membrane of the flow direction in Fixative Unit A. As the
and a lower shell. The membrane made of pump is running forward and reverses, one port
Elastosil M4600 is glued-in strain-relieved and of the Culture Chamber is used as both the outlet
serves as a barrier between fresh and waste and inlet port as well.
medium. This means that liquid stowed in the
Fixative Unit B
Fixative Unit A
Type IV InnerShell Type IV bottom view
Block Diagram: First Activation Block Diagram: Second Activation
INSERT HAS BEEN USED FOR:
Impact of microgravity on human thyroid carcinoma cells
Investigator: Prof. Daniela Grimm, Charite Berlin, Germany
Biological Material/Specimen: Human Thyroid Cancer Cells
Differentiation of human neuroglioma cells in microgravity
Investigator: Prof. Wolfgang Hanke, University Hohenheim, Germany
Biological Material/Specimen: Human Neuroglioma Cells (SH-SY5Y)26
TYPE V
Insert with Window type ASDADASD
MAIN FEATURES
The Type V InnerShell consists of a support connected to the Culture Chambers via tubing
structure (housing made of PEEK) which and tube connectors. It is mounted to the
includes two Culture Chambers (CCs), the pump housing with four screws. A pump is integrated
support structure, a Fixative Unit (Tank) and into the housing. It is fixed by two cylinder head
a canal system. The chambers can be closed screws. The container lid of the Type I-Container
with different windows made of Polycarbonate is mounted to the housing to provide an easy
or Polysulfone (PSU). A Fixative/Waste Unit is assembly for the PI.
HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS:
• The InnerShell (with EC support) does not exceed the interior envelope of the closed OuterShell.
Dimensions (LxWxH): 84.5 x 40 x 30 mm
• The Experiment consists of 2 Culture Chambers, each has the following size (radii not included):
CC (LxWxH): 31.7 x 24 x 14,3 mm ± 0.15 mm
• The mini-pump has a flow rate of ≥2.43 ml/min
• The mini-pump has a power consumption of ≤ 70 mA
• One support structure per culture chamber
• The tank has a volume of 20.3 ml ± 0.5 ml
• Compatible with KAB Controller
QUALIFICATION STATUS: R QUALIFIED FOR USE ON ISS
R READY FOR FLIGHT ON ISS27
FUNCTION
The two chambers are filled with biological symbolized for a simpler illustration). The pump
cells, plants, or other material. The Fixative will be activated after a certain time to pump
Unit is completely filled with a nutrient liquid the stored liquid into the chambers. The waste
or a fixative. The flexible membrane in between tank will compensate the pressure. Liquids or air
allows the liquid to expand and fill the whole tank from the Culture Chambers (CC) will be pushed
volume (in the drawings the tank membrane is into the waste tank.
Schematic of Insert‘s Function: 1st step: Initial Status Schematic of Insert‘s Function: 2nd step: Activation
INSERT HAS BEEN USED FOR:
Functional genomic analysis of plant signal transduction and secondary metabolism under
microgravity (Oryza sativa)
Investigator: Weiming Cai, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, CAS, Shanghai
Biological Material/Specimen: Rice Callus Cultures
Molecular biology basis of cytoskeleton responding to microgravity in plant cells
Investigator: Prof. ZhengHuiqiong, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, CAS, Shanghai
Biological Material/Specimen: Arabidopsis cell cultures
Investigation of rice proteomic change in response to microgravity
Investigator: Prof. SunWeining, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, CAS, Shanghai
Biological Material/Specimen: Rice Callus Cultures
The study of animal behavior and development (C. elegans)
Investigator: Prof. Wang Gaohon, Institute of Hydrobiology, CAS, Wuhan
Biological Material/Specimen: Caenorhabditis elegans
Studies on development and physiological response of algae in space
Investigator: Prof. Hu Chunxiang, Institute of Hydrobiology, CAS, Wuhan
Biological Material/Specimen: Haematococcus pluvialis
Gene expressions analyses for plants stimulated by space microgravity condition
(Arabidopsis thaliana)
Investigator: Prof. Liu Min, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, CAS, Beijing
Biological Material/Specimen: Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings28
BETA BOX
Insert „Beta Box“
MAIN FEATURES
The Beta Box InnerShell consists of a multiwall can be performed as an automated process via
plate unit with 12 wells and gas permeable an internal pump and valve system. The whole
membrane. This can be irradiated by a Pm-147 experiment is housed in an internal container
radiation source with different activities. The to create an additional Level of Containment.
source is nominally shielded by a curtain which Together with the external housing a total of 3
can be opened and closed via software command. LoCs are guaranteed.
A tank with two compartments is available for The radiation source can be upgraded for other
two different fluid exchanges. The exchanges radiation sources on demand.
HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS:
• The InnerShell shall not exceed the interior envelope of the closed Unit (LxWxH): 83x60x40 mm
• 12 standard 96-Multiwell wells, 100µl each with gas permeable membrane
• Radiation source: Pm-147 with different activities
• The tank has a volume of 16,1cm³ and is divided up in two chambers
• The mini-pump has a flow rate of 0.5ml/min per channel
• Total power consumption of 2W
QUALIFICATION STATUS: R IN QUALIFICATION PROCESS "FOR USE ON ISS"29
FUNCTION
The hardware can be used to examine radiation available easy to handle and to examine. Two
effects, e.g. cell damage, growth reduction, large-volume active liquid exchanges are
under micro gravity. Radiation-dose and length foreseen – e.g. nutrition and fixation.
of incubation time can be altered.
The hardware was designed to ensure that safe
Samples can be seeded in standard lab- working conditions are maintained at all time -
equipment 96-Multiwell-plates with gas- in microgravity or on earth.
permeable membrane. 6 wells per unit are
Internal hardware Container Beta Box hardware overview
INSERT HAS BEEN TESTED FOR:
• Tested cells: HEK 293 (Human embryonal kidney) / A549 cells (lung carcinoma cell line) –
other cell lines to be tested on demand
• Base-design has high maturity level – critical design review and NASA safety accomplished
successfully
• Biocompatibility tests have been performed successfully30
CUSTOMIZED
SOLUTIONS
The concept of the kiwi hardware portfolio and high quality hardware development. Our team
services is to use mainly standardized equipment follows the turnkey approach in close contact to
which can be slightly modified in order to keep the the scientist to iteratively design, develop and
development and implementation time as short as test Breadboards, Prototypes and finally the
possible. Nevertheless kiwi has a wide knowledge flight experiment flight hardware.
to develop customised individual experiment
solutions making use of their very experienced In addition to the standardized equipment kiwi
specialist and Scientific Experts. These specialists has a wide portfolio of auxiliary equipment and
have a large expertise in understanding functional features for the InnerShells presented here.
and scientific requirements and to translate them
into technical requirements needed to ensure a
DIFFERENT COVERS AND WINDOWS
There are a variety of covers and windows a gas permeable membrane covers as well as
available including: solid standard covers, open different Illumination panels for day/night cycles
windows with ventilation holes in different with customized wavelength. All offered parts
seizes and different membranes, windows with are tested to biocompatibility.
Window Types
SLIDES AND SAMPLE HOLDERS
The Culture Compartments of the presented Trays with Spikes (for e.g.: Cell Callus), Trays
InnerShells can be operated and filled with made of Makrolon as single slides or in stacks
biological material of any kind. In order to simplify are just some of the inserts available for the
the handling, pre-preparation and insertion optimal sample implementation. All of the slides
of the biological material Airbus Defence and and holders can be used during the preparation
Space offers different holders and slides. Agar e.g.: within cell culture media.31
32
HERITAGE
The kiwi hardware portfolio is based on the the advantage of the large portfolio already
so called BIORACK Standard which is going existing InnerShells satisfying nearly all modern
back to the ESA/BIORACK facility which was experiment investigations in the field of
originally developed for the Spacelab and first fundamental biomedical processes, cells and
flown on the D1 Mission in 1985. BIORACK organisms.
introduced the concept of standard Experiment
Containers (OuterShells) to house InnerShell
and provide interfaces to rack provided services
for: Incubation, Centrifugation, Cooling, Freezing,
Glovebox Handling.
The BIORACK concept has been extremely
successful from its first mission D-1 up to
the most recent utilization of KUBIC onboard
ISS, BIOBOX on the FOTON M3 or SIMBOX on
Shenzhou, leading to the impressive record
of >30 Missions in more than 25 years with
approximately 140 experiments and >350
publications in peer reviewed journals. Within this
time span a series of facilities including KUBIK,
BIOBOX, BIOPACK SIMBOX have been developed
following the same OuterShell standard.
With kiwi compatible facilities we offer
the utilization of this attractive standard in
cooperation with our Space Act Agreement
implementation partners. kiwi is able to take
Biopack Biolabor Simplex
Biorack Biobox Kubik33
ATV | INTEGRATED CARGO CARRIER | ARIANE 5 | ISS | COLUMBUS
ACKNOWLEDGEGMENTS
kiwi would like to thank all crew members Furthermore, kiwi would like to thank all of
who have helped us develop the equipment our subcontractors and suppliers for their
and performed the operations onboard the contributions to many of our products.
International Space Station. We would also like to
thank the dedicated teams at the involved ground Last but not least, Airbus Defence and Space
support centers around the world. would like to thank all the extraordinary biologists,
chemists, physicists and engineers inspiring
We thank our valued and long-standing and motivating us every day in finding the best
customers from ESA, NASA, DLR, CNES, ASI and solutions supporting their aim to gain knowledge
JAXA – for whom we had the opportunity to achieving better life on earth. Thank you!
develop the equipment in the first place.
POINT OF CONTACT AIRBUS:
Christian Bruderrek, Dipl.-Ing. christian.bruderrek@airbus.com
Maria Birlem, Dipl.-Ing. (FH) maria.birlem@airbus.com
Philipp Schulien, Dipl.-Ing. (FH) philipp.schulien@airbus.com
Program Managers
kiwi - ScienceShell/ScienceBox/ScienceTaxi
Airbus Defence and Space GmbH
Advanced Projects & Products
On-Orbit Services and Explorationhm+15491 www.kiwi-microgravity.com YOUR Ticket to microgravity Airbus Defence and Space GmbH kiwi – ScienceShell / ScienceBox / ScienceTaxi Advanced Projects & Products On-Orbit Services and Exploration Claude-Dornier-Strasse D-88090 Immenstaad Germany E-Mail: mysciencebox@airbus.com phone: +49 (0)7545-8-5825 www.kiwi-microgravity.com
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