October 3, 2012

Image Caption: Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Aki Hoshide, Expedition 33 flight engineer, services the Nano Step payload in the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station. Credit: NASA

Lee Rannals for redOrbit.com Your Universe Online

NASA announced it is inviting scientists from all over the world to submit proposals to perform biological research aboard the International Space Station.

NASAs Research Opportunities in Space Biology opened up for proposals on Sunday, challenging scientists to submit their experiments that could provide answers to questions about how life adapts and responds to microgravity.

Investigators will have the opportunity to take advantage of new cell, plant and animal research facilities being developed for the space station.

NASA said proposals submitted by the scientists should demonstrate benefits to astronauts living and working in the harsh environment of space during long-duration missions. The space agency also said they should improve medicine and health care for humans on Earth as well.

NASAs Research Announcement (NRA) focuses on ground-based research designed to lead to new space biology investigations aboard the space station.

The space agency said the investigations should use microgravity and other characteristics of the space environment effectively to enhance our understanding of basic biological processes and develop the scientific and technological foundations for a safe, productive human presence in space.

The investigations should also be able to be applied to help improve the United States competitiveness, education and quality of life, according to NASA.

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Scientists Invited To Submit Proposals For Biological Research In Space