LambdaVision’s Nicole Wagner Pens OpEd in SpaceNews to Continue Robust Pipeline of R&D on Space Station

Media Credit: NASA
July 10, 2025
In a recent OpEd published in SpaceNews, Nicole Wagner, co-founder of biotech startup LambdaVision underscores the critical importance of maintaining the ability for researchers to utilize the International Space Station (ISS) to advance R&D. She emphasizes how continued access to the ISS not only benefits humanity on Earth but also supports the development of sustainable business models that can transition to future commercial destinations in low Earth orbit (LEO). Furthermore, Wagner highlights the role of the space station in maintaining America’s leadership in space innovation.
Wagner and her team know first-hand the value of leveraging the unique microgravity environment of the space station. Over the years, the team has launched nine investigations to the ISS focused on developing and manufacturing retinal implants for patients affected by retinitis pigmentosa, a rare genetic disorder that causes vision loss and currently has no cure. LambdaVision’s innovative approach holds the promise of transforming the lives of patients on Earth by restoring their vision.
At the ISS National Lab, we are committed to fostering groundbreaking R&D that can drive significant advancements for humanity and have been proud to sponsor each investigation the LambdaVision team has launched to the orbiting outpost to date.
We encourage you to read Wagner’s insightful OpEd to understand the vital role of space-based research in driving technological and medical breakthroughs. Her perspective sheds light on the immense potential of the ISS as a platform for innovation and the need to ensure its continued availability for researchers and companies alike.
Read the full OpEd, which is also part of the ISS National Lab’s “Forging the Path” series.