NASA release sts-129

NASA STS-128 was the 128th Space Shuttle mission and the 30th mission to the International Space Station (ISS). Launched on August 28, 2009, the mission aimed to resupply the ISS and carry out important scientific research.

The primary objective of STS-128 was to deliver various supplies, equipment, and experiments to the crew of the ISS. The Space Shuttle Discovery, carrying a crew of seven astronauts, successfully transported more than 7,400 pounds (3,360 kilograms) of cargo to the space station.

One of the notable payloads onboard was the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module (MPLM) called Leonardo. This module was used to transport critical supplies, equipment, and experiments to support the needs of the ISS crew. It also facilitated the return of experiment results and trash back to Earth.

Some of the key experiments conducted during the STS-128 mission included:

1. The Commercial Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus (CGBA): This experiment studied the effects of microgravity on biological systems, helping scientists understand the impact of space travel on living organisms.

2. The Fluids Integrated Rack (FIR): FIR investigated the behavior of fluids, including liquids and gases, in microgravity. This research is crucial for various applications, such as designing more efficient fuel systems and understanding fluid dynamics in space.

3. The Fermentation and Integrated Research Experiment (FIRE): FIRE aimed to improve the efficiency of fermentation processes in space. This research could have important implications for future long-duration space missions, such as producing food and medicines in space.

STS-128 also marked the first time two of the most notable astronauts, Nicole Stott and Timothy Creamer, flew together on a mission. Stott later became famous for her involvement in the NASA's last space shuttle mission, STS-133, and for being the last person to fly to and from the ISS on a Space Shuttle.

Overall, the STS-128 mission played a vital role in the continued operation and resupply of the International Space Station, as well as advancing the understanding of various scientific disciplines in a microgravity environment.