This introduction summarizes the International Space Station’s unique research opportunities and key accomplishments to date. Learn how space station benefits are derived and look at the growing number of studies and facilities building on prior results as the station moves into its third decade, including from the perspective of its international partners.

From its orbit 402 kilometers (250 miles) above Earth, the International Space Station collects a variety of data and imagery that benefit humanity. More than 3.5 million photographs of Earth have contributed to research on our atmosphere and climate change, monitoring of and response to natural disasters such as flooding and volcanic eruptions, studies of light pollution, and much more.

Scientists use the International Space Station and its many tools, including DNA sequencing and genome editing, to study microbes – how they behave in sanitized and confined environments, how space may change them in ways that could affect human health, and whether they could be used to mine metals on other planets. 

Researchers from around the world use the International Space Station to address complex human health problems on Earth, studying disease formation, testing drugs and diagnostic tools, and examining the inner workings of the human body. Much of this work employs unique microgravity tools including protein crystals and tissue chips, as well as devices designed specifically for space but that also have been adapted for use on Earth. 

As a home to humans and a lab for scientific research for more than 20 years, the International Space Station is a one-of-a-kind platform for advancing technologies such as robots, computers, health monitors, life support systems, and more for both space and ground applications.

Space exploration and scientific discovery inspire people. The International Space Station seeks to share that inspiration as much as possible through various opportunities and programs.

Microgravity enables study of the physics of the universe through a completely new lens. International Space Station scientists are discovering fundamental knowledge through research on colloids, bubbles, and fluid behavior.

As a platform used by small businesses, entrepreneurs, and researchers to test their science and technology in space, the International Space Station has supported development of new and improved products, spawned new commercial ventures, and provided growth for existing ones.