The Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS), the nonprofit organization managing research on the International Space Station (ISS) U.S. National Laboratory, would like to congratulate SpaceX on the achieving a significant milestone today with the successful launch of the Falcon 9 rocket and Dragon capsule, both heading to the ISS to attempt a docking demonstration for NASA.
Transportation of commercial cargo to and from the ISS is key to the sustainability of the U.S. Space program. With this most recent successful SpaceX launch, and the anticipated Dragon docking demonstration at the ISS in the coming week, CASIS looks forward to working with SpaceX to deliver research payloads to the ISS National Lab in the near future.
Currently, there are 24 manifested payload flight/transport opportunities scheduled to fly payloads to the ISS between 2012 and 2013. CASIS has access to 50% of all NASA’s currently manifested up-mass allocation on all vehicles provided by our international partners and private commercial companies, like SpaceX. CASIS payloads will facilitate extraordinary R&D innovations through utilization of the unparalleled research platform of the ISS.
“We would like to congratulate SpaceX on a wonderfully executed launch today,” said CASIS Interim Executive Director Jim Royston. “This launch acts as a pathfinder for the continuing success and innovation of the U.S. Space Program and we look forward working with SpaceX to deliver groundbreaking research to the U.S. National Lab.”
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About CASIS: The Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS) was selected by NASA in July 2011 to maximize use of the International Space Station (ISS) U.S. National Laboratory through 2020. CASIS is dedicated to supporting and accelerating innovations and new discoveries that will enhance the health and wellbeing of people and our planet. The CASIS goal is to bring the magic of space down to earth. For more information, visit www.iss-casis.org.
About the ISS National Laboratory: In 2005, Congress designated the U.S. portion of the International Space Station as the nation’s newest national laboratory to maximize its use for improving life on Earth, promoting collaboration among diverse users and advancing STEM education. This unique laboratory environment is available for use by other U.S. government agencies and by academic and private institutions, providing access to the permanent microgravity setting, vantage point in low earth orbit and varied environments of space. The ISS National Laboratory Office at NASA’s Johnson Space Center currently facilitates research initiatives on board the station’s National Lab, but management of America’s only in-orbit laboratory is transitioning to CASIS.
