ISS National Lab Research Drives FDA Approval, Startup Funding
Event summary
- The ISS National Lab published a record 76 peer-reviewed studies in fiscal year 2025, up from 51 the previous year.
- Research from the lab directly informed the FDA approval of a new injectable cancer therapy from Merck & Co.
- Startup Encapsulate secured additional NASA funding and patents related to tumor-on-a-chip technology developed on the ISS.
- Orbit Fab signed a contract with the U.S. Space Force for in-orbit refueling services, marking an operational milestone.
The big picture
The ISS National Lab's record output underscores the growing recognition of microgravity as a unique research environment, particularly valuable for biomedical and materials science applications. This trend is fueled by increasing private sector investment in space-based research and a desire to leverage the ISS as a platform for technology development and commercialization. The success of startups like Encapsulate and Orbit Fab demonstrates the potential for LEO to drive innovation and create new markets.
What we're watching
- Commercialization
- The continued translation of ISS research into commercially viable products will be crucial for justifying ongoing investment in the lab and demonstrating its return on investment.
- Funding
- NASA's future funding priorities and the availability of private capital will dictate the pace of innovation and expansion of ISS-based research programs.
- Sustainability
- The long-term viability of the ISS itself, given planned decommissioning dates, will impact the ability of research programs to continue generating results and commercial opportunities.
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