NASA sends miniature human brain models to the International Space Station

NASA has successfully delivered miniature human brain models, known as ‘miBrains’, to the International Space Station (ISS) via SpaceX’s 35th Commercial Resupply Services (CRS-35) mission. The Dragon capsule, carrying approximately 2,860 kilograms of materials, docked with the station on October 15 following its launch from Cape Canaveral, Florida.

The laboratory-grown 3D models will remain in orbit for five weeks to study the effects of microgravity and radiation on brain cells. Researchers intend to compare these space-exposed samples with Earth-based controls to identify cellular and genetic changes.

This research aims to deepen the understanding of human aging and neurological diseases. Furthermore, the findings are expected to assist in developing methods to protect astronaut brain health during long-duration missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. The mission also includes experiments regarding the impact of microgravity on plant diseases.