Observing living cells in microgravity on the ISS? FLUMIAS made it possible.
German ESA astronaut Alexander Gerst took the FLUMIAS fluorescence microscope to the ISS in June 2018, where he and his colleagues recorded the first high-resolution images of living cells in space over an extended period of time. These images were then used to create 3D models and short films. Led by Prof. Daniela Grimm, researchers from the University of Magdeburg were thus able to make an important discovery: Our immune system adapts to microgravity after only a few seconds of disorientation.
But FLUMIAS is not only helping to ensure the health of astronauts on future long-duration space flights. People on Earth also benefit from basic research: For example, FLUMIAS is helping to deepen our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases, immune deficiencies and tumour development.
Optimised model already in the pipeline
A more advanced FLUMIAS model is already being prepared for use on the ISS. A special feature is that the microscope will be mounted on a rotor so that gravity can be switched on and off. It is also equipped with built-in life support systems and sample changers, and will be able to carry out six experiments in one mission. Scientists hope that this will provide important results for future long-term missions.
