Multi-use Variable-g Platform

Each MVP unit accommodates up to 12 experiment modules, which provide 2-levels of containment with standardized mechanical and electrical interfaces which may be accessed on orbit or controlled remotely or via a pre-programmed timeline. The uses of the MVP are numerous, such as cell culture, Drosophila, aquatics, plants, algae, invertebrate organisms and macromolecular crystal growth, and even cement. The MVP offers two independently controlled centrifuges (simultaneously providing 0-2 g each) as well as heating, cooling, humidity control, CO2 scrub, ethylene scrub and video observation (some experiment modules also include a microscope objective).

For experiment operations, the unique specimen containers will be transported to space for each specific research investigation. After the scientific objectives are complete, the unique specimen containers will then be transported back to earth while the MVP facility remains on orbit.