Want to receive notifications from space? NASA has an app for that. Its newest mobile application, called the Space Station Research Explorer, aims to keep users updated on the ISS (International Space Station) – the habitable, artificial satellite that currently floats in low Earth orbit. And yes, it’s available for both Android and iOS devices.
For space enthusiasts, it offers an inside look on the various experiments and facilities of the ISS – including detailed research information, in-depth descriptions, interactive media, as well as photos and videos.
The Space Station Research Explorer is split into four different sections: Experiments, Facilities, Benefits and Media:
The ISS largely serves as a space environment research laboratory, for crewmembers to conduct experiments in biology, physics, and astronomy, among other fields. It is also used as a platform to test future space craft systems and equipment for missions to the Moon and Mars. The Experiment section is specifically focused on the 6 main categories of ISS research, and contains images, descriptions and published content of the various experiments conducted in orbit.
Since the arrival of its first crew in November 2000, the ISS has been continuously occupied for over 14 years by astronauts from 15 different nations around the world. The Facilities section provides a closer look at the facilities that are utilized. By dragging up, down, left or right, users can view the different sides of the ISS and navigate through pictures of Columbus, Destiny, and Kibo – the three modules of the space station. Short descriptions also accompany the photos.
While small, unmanned space crafts can serve as platforms for space exposure and research, the ISS offers a long-term environment for studies to be conducted by astronauts. Thus, the Benefits section summarizes the features of the International Space Station, and its important role in various domains, such as the future of human health and global education.
The last section is divided into three subcategories: videos, games and podcasts. All help to complement the information that is presented in the other three sections of the application, and work together to provide users with an all access pass to the ISS.