KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FL, Sep 11, 2025 – The International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory, in partnership with NASA and the American Astronautical Society (AAS), will host three days of virtual technical sessions from Sept. 23–25 to examine the impact of research in low Earth orbit (LEO). The sessions will allow general public and researchers to learn about advancements in space-based R&D. The shift from the traditional in-person International Space Station Research and Development Conference (ISSRDC) offers a chance to see how current findings could influence future technologies and workforce development.
Click here to know about the session schedule and how to register.
More than 60 teams will offer insights into how the space station serve as a platform for fundamental and applied research that benefits life on Earth and expands capabilities in space. Upon completion of the event, video recordings of each session will be available on the ISSRDC website.
Session topics include:
- Physical Sciences and Materials Development
- Innovative Solutions and Remote Sensing
- Technology Demonstration
- STEM Engagement and Workforce Development
- In-Space Production and Applications
- Commercial and Non-Governmental Use
- Biology and Medicine
- Human Health and Performance
- Fundamental Biology
As the space station approaches 25 years of continuous human presence, these sessions showcase the value the orbiting laboratory brings to the scientific community and its role in shaping the LEO economy, strengthening national security, and preparing the space workforce. To date, more than 4,000 research investigations have been conducted on the space station. These investigations are from more than 5,000 researchers in over 110 countries, and findings have led to the publication of more than 4,400 scientific papers, advancing knowledge across a range of disciplines.
Source: ISS
About International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory
The International Space Station is an orbiting laboratory that enables research and technology development not possible on Earth. Operated as a public service, the ISS National Laboratory allows U.S. government agencies, academic institutions, and private-sector organizations to access its microgravity environment, Earth observation capabilities, and space-based conditions to support non-NASA science, technology, and education initiatives. The lab promotes research aimed at improving life on Earth, supporting the growth of commercial space activity, and advancing STEM education. Established in 2005, the ISS National Laboratory has been managed by the nonprofit Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS), since 2011 under a cooperative agreement with NASA. Headquartered in Rockledge, FL, the lab has supported more than 700 research payloads. In fiscal year 2024, it sponsored over 100 experiments, nearly 80% from commercial users. That year, funding commitments totaled nearly $25M, with STEM outreach and over 50 publications.
About International Space Station Research and Development Conference (ISSRDC)
The International Space Station Research and Development Conference (ISSRDC) is an annual event organized by Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS), NASA, and the American Astronautical Society (AAS). It brings together researchers, commercial service providers, government agencies and academic institutions to explore research, technology development and education opportunities on the International Space Station (ISS). The conference highlights work in life sciences, physical sciences, in-space manufacturing, advanced materials, stem cell research, Earth observation and STEM education. The conference is managed by CASIS, which is based in Rockledge, FL.
About American Astronautical Society (AAS)
The American Astronautical Society (AAS), founded in 1954, is a nonprofit professional society that promotes space science, exploration and astronautics through conferences, publications, awards and educational outreach. It serves industries including engineering, space research, government, defense, education, space law, history and policy. The society publishes the Journal of the Astronautical Sciences and Space Times and hosts meetings, symposia and workshops. AAS is based in Springfield, VA.