The Microgravity Science Glovebox Ground Unit, delivered to the Marshall Space Flight Center on August 30, 2002, will be used at Marshall's Microgravity Development Laboratory to test experiment hardware before it is installed in the flight glovebox aboard the International Space Station (ISS) U.S. Laboratory Module, Destiny. The glovebox is a sealed container with built in gloves on its sides and fronts that enables astronauts to work safely with experiments that involve fluids, flames, particles, and fumes that need to be safely contained.
This excellent shot of Marshall Space Flight Center's (MSFC's) Mark Whorton, testing experiment hardware in the Microgravity Science Glovebox Ground Unit delivered to MSFC on August 30, 2002, reveals a close look at the components inside of the Glovebox. The unit is being used at Marshall's Microgravity Development Laboratory to test experiment hardware before it is installed in the flight Glovebox aboard the International Space Station (ISS) U.S. Laboratory Module, Destiny. The glovebox is a sealed container with built in gloves on its sides and fronts that enables astronauts to work safely with experiments that involve fluids, flames, particles, and fumes that need to be safely contained.
STS075-772-057 (22 Feb.- 9 March 1996) --- Astronauts Jeffrey A. Hoffman (left) and Maurizio Cheli, representing European Space Agency (ESA), set up an experiment at the glovebox on the space shuttle Columbia's middeck. The two mission specialists joined three other astronauts and an international payload specialist for more than 16 days of research aboard Columbia.
Glovebox Systems Engineer, Sam Ortega, explains how the microgravity glovebox works to 2 young MSFC Open House visitors.
USML-1, Howard Ross working with the Glovebox Module
Mary-Etta Wright and Dornie McCaghren with Russia's Mir Flight Glovebox.
Dr. Albert Sacco with Glovebox
STS-73 crewmember with the Glovebox
Astronaut Mae Jemison working on Glovebox experiment.
Larry DeLucas operating USML-1 Glovebox
A versatile experiment facility for the International Space Station moved closer to flight recently with delivery of the ground-test model to NASA's Marshall Flight Center. The Microgravity Science Glovebox Ground Unit was delivered to the Microgravity Development Laboratory will be used to test hardware and procedures for the flight model of the glovebox aboard the ISS's Laboratory Module, Destiny.
Astronaut Mae Jemison using the Glovebox microscope onboard STS-47.
Sharnon Lucid aboard STS-79, with the Glovebox in MIR Priroda module. Priroda is the Russian word for nature.
Onboard Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-94) Mission Specialist Donald A. Thomas observes an experiment in the glovebox aboard the Spacelab Science Module. Thomas is looking through an eye-piece of a camcorder and recording his observations on tape for post-flight analysis. Other cameras inside the glovebox are also recording other angles of the experiment or downlinking video to the experiment teams on the ground. The glovebox is thought of as a safety cabinet with closed front and negative pressure differential to prevent spillage and contamination and allow for manipulation of the experiment sample when its containment has to be opened for observation, microscopy and photography. Although not visible in this view, the glovebox is equipped with windows on the top and each side for these observations.
The Microgravity Science Glovebox is a facility for performing microgravity research in the areas of materials, combustion, fluids and biotechnology science. The facility occupies a full ISPR, consisting of: the ISPR rack and infrastructure for the rack, the glovebox core facility, data handling, rack stowage, outfitting equipment, and a video subsystem. MSG core facility provides the experiment developers a chamber with air filtering and recycling, up to two levels of containment, an airlock for transfer of payload equipment to/from the main volume, interface resources for the payload inside the core facility, resources inside the airlock, and storage drawers for MSG support equipment and consumables.
Onboard Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-73) Mission Specialists Catherine Cady Coleman works at the glovebox facility in support of the Protein Crystal Growth Glovebox (PCG-GBX) experiment in the United States Microgravity Laboratory 2 (USML-2) Spacelab science module.
Experiment sequence test on USML-1 Glovebox equipment and test investigator group.
STS-76, Mir Glovebox and NASA-2 (Mir-21) increment. Astronaut Sharnon Lucid, Cosmonaut Yuriy-V Usachov and Flight Engineer/Cosmonaut Yuriy-I Onuufriyenko.
Onboard photo of space shuttle Columbia (STS-75) Swiss crewmember Claude Nicollier with a view of Middeck Glovebox (MGBX) which provides a general-purpose enclosed workspace to carry out small-scale microgravity science experiments.
NASA’s Virtual Glovebox (VGX) was developed to allow astronauts on Earth to train for complex biology research tasks in space. The astronauts may reach into the virtual environment, naturally manipulating specimens, tools, equipment, and accessories in a simulated microgravity environment as they would do in space. Such virtual reality technology also provides engineers and space operations staff with rapid prototyping, planning, and human performance modeling capabilities. Other Earth based applications being explored for this technology include biomedical procedural training and training for disarming bio-terrorism weapons.
STS81-E-05107 (13 Jan. 1997) --- Astronaut John M. Grunsfeld, mission specialist, begins to activate a biorack glovebox aboard the Spacehab Double Module (DM) early on Day 2 of the mission. Grunsfeld is joined by five other NASA astronauts for the almost ten-day mission. The crew is scheduled to dock with Russia's Mir Space Station and pick up John E. Blaha, NASA astronaut who has been serving as a cosmonaut guest researcher since September 1996. Jerry M. Linenger (out of frame) will replace Blaha onboard Mir.
The first International Space Station experiment facility--the Microgravity Glovebox Ground Unit--has been delivered to Marshall Space Flight Center's Microgravity Development Laboratory. The glovebox is a facility that provides a sealed work area accessed by the crew in gloves. This glovebox will be used at the Marshall laboratory throughout the Space Station era.
The first United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) provided scientific research in materials science, fluid dynamics, biotechnology, and combustion science in a weightless environment inside the Spacelab module. This photograph is a close-up view of the Glovebox in operation during the mission. The Spacelab Glovebox, provided by the European Space Agency, offers experimenters new capabilities to test and develop science procedures and technologies in microgravity. It enables crewmembers to handle, transfer, and otherwise manipulate materials in ways that are impractical in the open Spacelab. The facility is equipped with three doors: a central port through which experiments are placed in the Glovebox and two glovedoors on both sides with an attachment for gloves or adjustable cuffs and adapters for cameras. The Glovebox has an enclosed compartment that offers a clean working space and minimizes the contamination risks to both Spacelab and experiment samples. Although fluid containment and ease of cleanup are major benefits provided by the facility, it can also contain powders and bioparticles; toxic, irritating, or potentially infectious materials; and other debris produced during experiment operations. The facility is equipped with photographic/video capabilities and permits mounting a microscope. For the USML-1 mission, the Glovebox experiments fell into four basic categories: fluid dynamics, combustion science, crystal growth, and technology demonstration. The USML-1 flew aboard the STS-50 mission in June 1992.
A Virginia student works with a bottle and its cap in a mockup of the Middeck Glovebox used by astronauts on a number of space shuttle research missions. The activity was part of the Space Research and You education event held by NASA's Office of Biological and Physical Research on June 25, 2002, in Arlington, VA, to highlight the research that will be conducted on STS-107.
This photo shows the access through the internal airlock (bottom right) on the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) being developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA for use aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The airlock will allow the insertion or removal of equipment and samples without opening the working volume of the glovebox. Scientists will use the MSG to carry out multidisciplinary studies in combustion science, fluid physics and materials science. The MSG is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Photo Credit: NASA/MSFC
This photo shows the access through the internal airlock on the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) being developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA for use aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The airlock will allow the insertion or removal of equipment and samples without opening the working volume of the glovebox. Scientists will use the MSG to carry out multidisciplinary studies in combustion science, fluid physics and materials science. The MSG is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Photo Credit: NASA/MSFC
This wide view gives an overall perspective of the working environment of five astronauts and two guest researchers for 16 days in Earth-orbit. At work in support of the U.S. Microgravity Laboratory (USML-2) mission in this particular scene are astronaut Catherine G. Coleman, who busies herself at the glovebox, and payload specialist Fred. W. Leslie, monitoring the Surface-Tension-Driven Convection Experiment (STDCE).
NASA representatives prepare for another day's work answering questions and handing out posters at AirVenture 2000. Part of their demonstrations included a training model of the Middeck Glovebox used aboard the Space Shuttle and Russian Mir Space Station. This and several other devices were used to explain to the public the kinds of research that have been conducted aboard the Space Shuttle and that will continue aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The exhibit was part of the NASA outreach activity at AirVenture 2000 sponsored by the Experimental Aircraft Association in Oshkosh, WI.
NASA representatives prepare for another day's work answering questions and handing out posters at AirVenture 2000. Part of their demonstrations included a training model of the Middeck Glovebox used aboard the Space Shuttle and Russian Mir Space Station. This and several other devices were used to explain to the public the kinds of research that have been conducted aboard the Space Shuttle and that will continue aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The exhibit was part of the NASA outreach activity at AirVenture 2000 sponsored by the Experimental Aircraft Association in Oshkosh, WI.
iss058e028142 (3/7/2019) --- View of the Microgravity Sciences Glovebox (MSG) during configuration of the SUBSA (Solidification Using Baffles in Sealed Ampoules) hardware in the MSG Work Volume in the Destiny Laboratory aboard the International Space Staion(ISS). SUBSA is a high-temperature furnace that can be used to study how microgravity affects the synthesis of semiconductor and scintillator crystals.
S94-E-5001 (5 July 1997) --- Astronaut Donald Thomas, mission specialist, uses a microscope at the glovebox onboard the Space Shuttle Columbia's Spacelab Module during flight day five activities.
ISS017-E-014001 (23 Aug. 2008) --- Astronaut Greg Chamitoff, Expedition 17 flight engineer, works with the Microgravity Sciences Glovebox and the Commercial Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus in the Columbus laboratory on the International Space Station.
JEREMIAH HALEY, DAVE ARGENTI, ROBERT TRIMBLE, & ERIK SHAUGHNESSY MISSION OPERATIONS LABORATORY - LABORATORY TRAINING COMPLEX (LTC), BUILDING 4663, MICROGRAVITY SCIENCE GLOVEBOX (MSG)- WORK VOLUME(WV) TRAINING
The USML-1 Glovebox (GBX) is a multi-user facility supporting 16 experiments in fluid dynamics, combustion sciences, crystal growth, and technology demonstration. The GBX has an enclosed working space which minimizes the contamination risks to both Spacelab and experiment samples. The GBX supports four charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras (two of which may be operated simultaneously) with three black-and-white and three color camera CCD heads available. The GBX also has a backlight panel, a 35 mm camera, and a stereomicroscope that offers high-magnification viewing of experiment samples. Video data can also be downlinked in real-time. The GBX also provides electrical power for experiment hardware, a time-temperature display, and cleaning supplies.
The USML-1 Glovebox (GBX) is a multi-user facility supporting 16 experiments in fluid dynamics, combustion sciences, crystal growth, and technology demonstration. The GBX has an enclosed working space which minimizes the contamination risks to both Spacelab and experiment samples. The GBX supports four charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras (two of which may be operated simultaneously) with three black-and-white and three color camera CCD heads available. The GBX also has a backlight panel, a 35 mm camera, and a stereomicroscope that offers high-magnification viewing of experiment samples. Video data can also be downlinked in real-time. The GBX also provides electrical power for experiment hardware, a time-temperature display, and cleaning supplies.
Tim Broach (center) of NASA/Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC), demonstrates the working volume inside the Microgravity Sciences Glovebox being developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) for use aboard the U.S. Destiny laboratory module on the International Space Station (ISS). This mockup is the same size as the flight hardware. Photo credit: NASA/Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC)
ISS007-E-17880 (20 October 2003) --- European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Pedro Duque of Spain prepares to set up the Cervantes program of tests (consisting of 20 commercial experiments) by starting with the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSB) in the Destiny laboratory on the International Space Station (ISS). Duque is working on the PROMISS experiment, which will investigate the growth processes of proteins during weightless conditions.
ISS030-E-051104 (27 Jan. 2012) --- NASA astronaut Don Pettit, Expedition 30 flight engineer, works on a Synchronized Position Hold, Engage, Reorient, Experimental Satellite (SPHERES) in a portable glovebox facility in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station.
ISS030-E-051108 (27 Jan. 2012) --- NASA astronaut Don Pettit, Expedition 30 flight engineer, works on a Synchronized Position Hold, Engage, Reorient, Experimental Satellite (SPHERES) in a portable glovebox facility in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station.
iss062e014085 (Feb. 22, 2020) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 62 Flight Engineer Andrew Morgan services the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) inside the U.S. Destiny laboratory module. Morgan was cleaning and lubricating the MSG components and photographing the maintenance work for inspection.
ISS030-E-051107 (27 Jan. 2012) --- NASA astronaut Don Pettit, Expedition 30 flight engineer, works on a Synchronized Position Hold, Engage, Reorient, Experimental Satellite (SPHERES) in a portable glovebox facility in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station.
ISS031-E-140316 (18 May 2012) --- European Space Agency astronaut Andre Kuipers, Expedition 31 flight engineer, supports a ground-conducted health check on ESA’s Biolab Glovebox in the Columbus laboratory of the International Space Station.
ISS031-E-140311 (18 May 2012) --- European Space Agency astronaut Andre Kuipers, Expedition 31 flight engineer, supports a ground-conducted health check on ESA’s Biolab Glovebox in the Columbus laboratory of the International Space Station.
ISS031-E-140314 (18 May 2012) --- European Space Agency astronaut Andre Kuipers, Expedition 31 flight engineer, supports a ground-conducted health check on ESA’s Biolab Glovebox in the Columbus laboratory of the International Space Station.
Tim Broach (seen through window) of NASA/Marshall Spce Flight Center (MSFC), demonstrates the working volume inside the Microgravity Sciences Glovebox being developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) for use aboard the U.S. Destiny laboratory module on the International Space Station (ISS). This mockup is the same size as the flight hardware. Observing are Tommy Holloway and Brewster Shaw of The Boeing Co. (center) and John-David Bartoe, ISS research manager at NASA/John Space Center and a payload specialist on Spacelab-2 mission (1985). Photo crdit: NASA/Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC)
STS076-312-022 (22 - 31 March 1996) --- Astronaut Ronald M. Sega, payload commander, works in the glovebox facility in the Spacehab laboratory aboard the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Atlantis. The Spacehab facility was one of the busier research areas on Atlantis during the STS-76 mission. Also, some of the gear for transfer to Russia's Mir Space Station was stowed there prior to the March 23, 1996 docking of Atlantis and Mir.
STS073-E-5246 (3 Nov. 1995) --- Astronaut Kathryn C. Thornton, STS-73 payload commander, works in the Glovebox of the science module supporting the U.S. Microgravity Laboratory (USML-2) mission. Five NASA astronauts and two payload specialists are in the last few days of a scheduled 16-day mission. This frame was exposed with the Electronic Still Camera (ESC).
STS073-E-5000 (23 Oct. 1995) --- Astronaut Catherine G. Coleman, STS-73 mission specialist, works in the Glovebox on the portside of the science module aboard the space shuttle Columbia in Earth orbit. This Electronic Still Camera (ESC) frame was the first downlinked from the spacecraft during the scheduled 16-day United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-2) mission.
In the Destiny laboratory aboard the International Space Station (ISS), European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Pedro Duque of Spain is seen working at the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG). He is working with the PROMISS experiment, which will investigate the growth processes of proteins during weightless conditions. The PROMISS is one of the Cervantes program of tests (consisting of 20 commercial experiments). The MSG is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC).
Interior lights give the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) the appearance of a high-tech juke box. The European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA are developing the MSG for use aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Scientists will use the MSG to carry out multidisciplinary studies in combustion science, fluid physics and materials science. The MSG is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Photo Credit: NASA/MSFC
Once the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) is sealed, additional experiment items can be inserted through a small airlock at the bottom right of the work volume. It is shown here with the door open. The European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA are developing the MSG for use aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Scientists will use the MSG to carry out multidisciplinary studies in combustion science, fluid physics and materials science. The MSG is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Photo Credit: NASA/MSFC
Interior lights give the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) the appearance of a high-tech juke box. The European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA are developing the MSG for use aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Scientists will use the MSG to carry out multidisciplinary studies in combustion science, fluid physics and materials science. The MSG is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Photo Credit: NASA/MSFC
Interior lights give the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) the appearance of a high-tech juke box. The European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA are developing the MSG for use aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Scientists will use the MSG to carry out multidisciplinary studies in combustion science, fluid physics and materials science. The MSG is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Photo Credit: NASA/MSFC
This photo shows the interior reach in the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) being developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA for use aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Scientists will use the MSG to carry out multidisciplinary studies in combustion science, fluid physics and materials science. The MSG is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Photo Credit: NASA/MSFC
This photo shows a rubber glove and its attachment ring for the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) being developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA for use aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Scientists will use the MSG to carry out multidisciplinary studies in combustion science, fluid physics and materials science. The MSG is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Photo Credit: NASA/MSFC
An array of miniature lamps will provide illumination to help scientists as they conduct experiments inside the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG). The European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA are developing the MSG for use aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Scientists will use the MSG to carry out multidisciplinary studies in combustion science, fluid physics and materials science. The MSG is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Photo Credit: NASA/MSFC
Interior lights give the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) the appearance of a high-tech juke box. The European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA are developing the MSG for use aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Scientists will use the MSG to carry out multidisciplinary studies in combustion science, fluid physics and materials science. The MSG is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Photo Credit: NASA/MSFC
The Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) is being developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA for use aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Scientists will use the MSG to carry out multidisciplinary studies in combustion science, fluid physics and materials science. The MSG is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Photo Credit: NASA/MSFC
This photo shows the access through the internal airlock (bottom right) on the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) being developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA for use aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Scientists will use the MSG to carry out multidisciplinary studies in combustion science, fluid physics and materials science. The MSG is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Photo Credit: NASA/MSFC
This photo shows one of three arrays of air filters inside the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) being developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA for use aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Scientists will use the MSG to carry out multidisciplinary studies in combustion science, fluid physics and materials science. The MSG is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Photo Credit: NASA/MSFC
Interior lights give the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) the appearance of a high-tech juke box. The European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA are developing the MSG for use aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Scientists will use the MSG to carry out multidisciplinary studies in combustion science, fluid physics and materials science. The MSG is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Photo Credit: NASA/MSFC
ISS006-E-07275 (16 December 2002) --- Astronaut Kenneth D. Bowersox, Expedition Six mission commander, works with an experiment in a portable glovebox facility called the Maintenance Work Area (MWA) in the Destiny laboratory on the International Space Station (ISS).
Access ports, one on each side of the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG), will allow scientists to place large experiment items inside the MSG. The ports also provide additional glove ports (dark circle) for greater access to the interior. The European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA are developing the MSG for use aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Scientists will use the MSG to carry out multidisciplinary studies in combustion science, fluid physics and materials science. The MSG is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Photo Credit: NASA/MSFC
Access ports, one on each side of the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG), will allow scientists to place large experiment items inside the MSG. The ports also provide additional glove ports (silver disk) for greater access to the interior. The European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA are developing the MSG for use aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Scientists will use the MSG to carry out multidisciplinary studies in combustion science, fluid physics and materials science. The MSG is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Photo Credit: NASA/MSFC
iss073e0178587 (June 16, 2025) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 73 Flight Engineer Nichole Ayers conducts research operations inside the Destiny laboratory module's Microgravity Science Glovebox aboard the International Space Station. Ayers swapped syringes containing protein samples and installed test cells inside the glovebox for the Ring-Sheared Drop Interfacial Bioprocessing of Pharmaceuticals investigation that explores using surface tension to contain liquids and study proteins without contacting solid walls. Results may benefit pharmaceutical manufacturing and 3D printing techniques on and off the Earth.
iss073e0177791 (June 12, 2025) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 73 Flight Engineer Jonny Kim conducts research operations inside the Destiny laboratory module's Microgravity Science Glovebox aboard the International Space Station. Kim swapped syringes containing protein samples and installed test cells inside the glovebox for the Ring-Sheared Drop Interfacial Bioprocessing of Pharmaceuticals investigation that explores using surface tension to contain liquids and study proteins without contacting solid walls. Results may benefit pharmaceutical manufacturing and 3D printing techniques on and off the Earth.
STS073-105-011 (20 October-5 November 1995) --- Astronaut Catherine G. Coleman, STS-73 mission specialist, settles in for a session of work at the glovebox on the starboard side of the United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-2) module. Coleman was joined by four other NASA astronauts and two guest researchers for almost 16 days of research aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia in Earth-orbit.
STS073-E-5024 (23 Oct. 1995)--- Albert Sacco Jr., STS-73 payload specialist, works in the Glovebox on the portside of the science module aboard the space shuttle Columbia in Earth orbit. This frame was exposed with the color Electronic Still Camera (ESC) assigned to the scheduled 16-day United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-2) mission.
iss073e0982894 (Oct. 28, 2025) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 73 Flight Engineer Mike Fincke poses for a portrait next to the Microgravity Science Glovebox aboard the International Space Station’s Destiny laboratory module. Fincke had just completed configuring research hardware for the Zero Boil-Off Tank physics investigation, which explores methods for storing cryogenic fluids. The experiment supports advancements in spacecraft propulsion and life support systems, as well as biotechnological, medical, and industrial applications on Earth.
iss073e0606547 (Sept. 4, 2025) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 73 Flight Engineer Mike Fincke poses for a portrait in front of the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) inside the International Space Station’s Destiny laboratory. Fincke installed the Colloidal Solids research hardware in the MSG to explore pharmaceutical manufacturing and 3D printing techniques in microgravity—research that could advance human health both in space and on Earth.
iss073e0759779 (Sept. 2, 2025) --- A top-down view inside the Destiny laboratory module’s Microgravity Science Glovebox shows the gloved arms and hands of NASA astronaut and Expedition 73 Flight Engineer Zena Cardman. She was processing bone marrow stem cell samples for the Microgravity Associated Bone Loss-B (MABL-B) experiment. The space biology investigation could help scientists better understand the molecular mechanisms behind space-caused bone loss and the natural aging process on Earth.
In this photograph, astronaut David Hilmers conducts a life science experiment by using the Biorack Glovebox (GBX) during the International Microgravity Laboratory-1 (IML-1) mission. The Biorack was a large multipurpose facility designed for studying the effects of microgravity and cosmic radiation on numerous small life forms such as cells, tissues, small organisms, and plants. Located at the Biorack, the GBX was an enclosed environment that protected samples from contamination and prevented liquid from escaping. Crewmembers handled the specimens with their hands inside gloves that extended into the sealed work area. A microscope and video camera mounted on the GBX door were used to observe and document experiments. Managed by the Marshall Space Flight Center, the IML-1 mission was the first in a series of Shuttle flights dedicated to fundamental materials and life sciences research and was launched aboard the Shuttle Orbiter Discovery (STS-42) on January 22, 1992.
ISS017-E-012288 (31 July 2008) --- NASA astronaut Greg Chamitoff, Expedition 17 flight engineer, works with the Shear History Extensional Rheology Experiment (SHERE) rheometer inside the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) in the Columbus laboratory of the International Space Station.
ISS017-E-012283 (31 July 2008) --- NASA astronaut Greg Chamitoff, Expedition 17 flight engineer, works with the Shear History Extensional Rheology Experiment (SHERE) rheometer inside the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) in the Columbus laboratory of the International Space Station.
iss073e0886402 (Oct. 17) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 73 Flight Engineer Jonny Kim works inside the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) aboard the International Space Station’s Destiny laboratory module. Kim is seen stowing research hardware used in the Colloidal Solids physics experiment, which investigates how tiny particles—colloids—and proteins suspended in water behave in microgravity. The results may inform plant growth techniques, 3D printing technologies, and pharmaceutical manufacturing in space. On Earth, the findings could benefit the food, personal care, and healthcare industries.
Astromaterials processor Mari Montoya shows a hand heart while working in the OSIRIS-REx canister glovebox at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. Montoya was sweeping asteroid material on the avionics deck of the OSIRIS-REx canister and was so deep in concentration that she didn’t realize the dust had formed the shape of a heart until her teammate on the other side of the glovebox pointed it out.
Students in the Young Astronaut Program at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center in Columbus, GA, constructed gloveboxes using the new NASA Student Glovebox Education Guide. The young astronauts used cardboard copier paper boxes as the heart of the glovebox. The paper boxes transformed into gloveboxes when the students pasted poster-pictures of an actual NASA microgravity science glovebox inside and outside of the paper boxes. The young astronauts then added holes for gloves and removable transparent top covers, which completed the construction of the gloveboxes. This image is from a digital still camera; higher resolution is not available.
Students in the Young Astronaut Program at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center in Columbus, GA, constructed gloveboxes using the new NASA Student Glovebox Education Guide. The young astronauts used cardboard copier paper boxes as the heart of the glovebox. The paper boxes transformed into gloveboxes when the students pasted poster-pictures of an actual NASA microgravity science glovebox inside and outside of the paper boxes. The young astronauts then added holes for gloves and removable transparent top covers, which completed the construction of the gloveboxes. This image is from a digital still camera; higher resolution is not available.
Students in the Young Astronaut Program at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center in Columbus, GA, constructed gloveboxes using the new NASA Student Glovebox Education Guide. The young astronauts used cardboard copier paper boxes as the heart of the glovebox. The paper boxes transformed into gloveboxes when the students pasted poster-pictures of an actual NASA microgravity science glovebox inside and outside of the paper boxes. The young astronauts then added holes for gloves and removable transparent top covers, which completed the construction of the gloveboxes. This image is from a digital still camera; higher resolution is not available.
Students in the Young Astronaut Program at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center in Columbus, GA, constructed gloveboxes using the new NASA Student Glovebox Education Guide. The young astronauts used cardboard copier paper boxes as the heart of the glovebox. The paper boxes transformed into gloveboxes when the students pasted poster-pictures of an actual NASA microgravity science glovebox inside and outside of the paper boxes. The young astronauts then added holes for gloves and removable transparent top covers, which completed the construction of the gloveboxes. This image is from a digital still camera; higher resolution is not available.
STS073-E-5003 (23 Oct. 1995) --- Astronaut Kathryn C. Thornton, STS-73 payload commander, works at the Drop Physics Module (DPM) on the portside of the science module aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia in Earth orbit. Payload specialist Albert Sacco Jr. conducts an experiment at the Glovebox. This frame was exposed with the color Electronic Still Camera (ESC) assigned to the 16-day United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-2) mission.
iss073e0118821 (May 30, 2025) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 73 Flight Engineer Nichole Ayers conducts research operations inside the Kibo laboratory module's Life Science Glovebox aboard the International Space Station. Ayers was processing samples of deep-sea bacteria to test a specialized 3D microscope for its ability to monitor water quality, detect potentially infectious organisms, and study liquid mixtures and microorganisms in space and on Earth.
iss073e0118830 (May 30, 2025) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 73 Flight Engineer Nichole Ayers conducts research operations inside the Kibo laboratory module's Life Science Glovebox aboard the International Space Station. Ayers was processing samples of deep-sea bacteria to test a specialized 3D microscope for its ability to monitor water quality, detect potentially infectious organisms, and study liquid mixtures and microorganisms in space and on Earth.
iss073e0253837 (July 1, 2025) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 73 Flight Engineer Nichole Ayers poses for a portrait as she removes physics research hardware from inside the Microgravity Science Glovebox located inside the International Space Station's Destiny laboratory module. Ayers was completing operations with the Ring Sheared Drop investigation that may benefit pharmaceutical manufacturing techniques and 3D printing in space.
iss073e0253839 (July 1, 2025) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 73 Flight Engineer Nichole Ayers removes physics research hardware from inside the Microgravity Science Glovebox located inside the International Space Station's Destiny laboratory module. Ayers was completing operations with the Ring Sheared Drop investigation that may benefit pharmaceutical manufacturing techniques and 3D printing in space.
iss073e1046752 (Oct. 31, 2025) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 73 Flight Engineer Mike Fincke conducts research operations inside the Life Science Glovebox aboard the International Space Station’s Kibo laboratory module. Fincke was assisting scientists in studying the behavior, growth, and differentiation of stem cells, and how they can be converted into brain or heart cells in microgravity. The results could lead to advancements in crew health monitoring and drug manufacturing in space, as well as new treatments for heart and neurodegenerative diseases on Earth.
iss073e0548846 (Aug. 28, 2025) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 73 Flight Engineer Zena Cardman processes bone cell samples inside the Kibo laboratory module's Life Science Glovebox. She was exploring the molecular mechanisms of space-induced bone loss for an investigation that could help the human skeletal system adapt to spaceflight and lead to advanced treatments for aging conditions and bone diseases on Earth.
iss073e0548857 (Aug. 28, 2025) --- NASA astronaut and Expedtion 73 Flight Engineer Jonny Kim processes bone cell samples inside the Kibo laboratory module's Life Science Glovebox. He was exploring the molecular mechanisms of space-induced bone loss for an investigation that could help the human skeletal system adapt to spaceflight and lead to advanced treatments for aging conditions and bone diseases on Earth.
In this photograph, astronaut Roberta Bondar conducts a life science experiment by using the Biorack Glovebox (GBX) during the International Microgravity Laboratory-1 (IML-1) mission. The Biorack was a large multipurpose facility designed for studying the effects of microgravity and cosmic radiation on numerous small life forms such as cells, tissues, small organisms, and plants. Located at the Biorack, the GBX was an enclosed environment that protected samples from contamination and prevented liquid from escaping. Crewmembers handled the specimens with their hands inside gloves that extended into the sealed work area. A microscope and video camera mounted on the GBX door were used to observe and document experiments. Managed by the Marshall Space Flight Center, the IML-1 mission was the first in a series of Shuttle flights dedicated to fundamental materials and life sciences research and was launched aboard the Shuttle Orbiter Discovery (STS-42) on January 22, 1992.
ED BERMEA, (BLUE SHIRT), AND MSG TEAM MEMBERS AT CONSOLE
One of the first materials science experiments on the International Space Station -- the Solidification Using a Baffle in Sealed Ampoules (SUBSA) -- will be conducted during Expedition Five inside the Microgravity Science Glovebox. The glovebox is the first dedicated facility delivered to the Station for microgravity physical science research, and this experiment will be the first one operated inside the glovebox. The glovebox's sealed work environment makes it an ideal place for the furnace that will be used to melt semiconductor crystals. Astronauts can change out samples and manipulate the experiment by inserting their hands into a pair of gloves that reach inside the sealed box. Dr. Aleksandar Ostrogorsky, a materials scientist from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, N.Y., and the principal investigator for the SUBSA experiment, uses the gloves to examine an ampoule like the ones used for his experiment inside the glovebox's work area. The Microgravity Science Glovebox and the SUBSA experiment are managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala.
iss073e0886460 (Oct. 20, 2025) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 73 Flight Engineer Zena Cardman installs research hardware inside the Destiny laboratory module’s Microgravity Science Glovebox. The equipment supports the Fluid Particles experiment, which helps researchers understand how particles in a liquid interface come together to form larger structures or clusters in microgravity. Results could advance fire suppression, lunar dust control, and plant growth in space. Earth benefits may include insights into pollen behavior, algae blooms, plastic pollution, and sea salt transfer during storms.
iss073e0917010 (Oct. 21, 2025) --- NASA astronaut and Expedition 73 Flight Engineer Mike Fincke gives a thumbs-up in front of the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) inside the International Space Station's Destiny laboratory module. Fincke had just completed research operations for the Fluid Particles experiment, which helps researchers understand how particles in a liquid interface come together to form larger structures or clusters in microgravity. Results could advance fire suppression, lunar dust control, and plant growth in space. Earth benefits may include insights into pollen behavior, algae blooms, plastic pollution, and sea salt transfer during storms.
European Space Agency's Biorack glovebox
ISS047e050514 (04/07/2016) --- Expedition 47 Commander Tim Kopra configures the station’s Microgravity Science Glovebox for upcoming research operations. The glovebox is one of the major dedicated science facilities inside Destiny. It has a large front window and built-in gloves to provide a sealed environment for conducting science and technology experiments. The Glovebox is particularly suited for handling hazardous materials when the crew is present.
STS050-259-016 (25 June-9 July 1992) --- Payload specialist Lawrence J. DeLucas works at the Multipurpose Glovebox (MPGB) in the science module aboard the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Columbia. Provided by the European Space Agency, the glovebox enables crewmembers to handle, transfer and otherwise manipulate materials in ways that are impractical in the open science module. At least 16 experiments were accommodated in the glovebox during this 14-day record-setting mission.
iss049e002655 (09/13/2016) --- NASA astronaut Kate Rubins, a crew member of Expedition 49 aboard the International Space Station, works on an experiment inside the station’s Microgravity Science Glovebox. The glovebox is one of the major dedicated science facilities inside the Destiny laboratory and provides a sealed environment for conducting science and technology experiments. The glovebox is particularly suited for handling hazardous materials when the crew is present.
NASA astronaut Kate Rubins works on Selectable Optical Diagnostics Instrument Experiment Diffusion Coefficient Mixture-3 (SODI) DCMix-3 Installation inside the station’s Microgravity Science Glovebox. The glovebox is one of the major dedicated science facilities inside the Destiny laboratory and provides a sealed environment for conducting science and technology experiments. The glovebox is particularly suited for handling hazardous materials when the crew is present.
MSG TEAM MEMBERS JOHN WILSON, (L), AND PHILLIP BRYANT TEST AND INTEGRATE HARDWARE BEFORE SENDING TO ISS
SHEAR EXTENSIONAL RHEOLOGY EXPERIMENT FLUID MODULE AND KC135 AIRCRAFT TEST FIXTURE FOR THE EXTENSIONAL RHEOLOGY GLOVEBOX INVESTIGATION