NG-23 September 15, 2025

NG-23

Launched on September 14, 2025, at 6:11 p.m. EST from Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, FL, Northrop Grumman’s NG-23 mission is carrying Space Tango partner investigations to the International Space Station (ISS). As the mission continues, we invite you to explore the amazing science our partners are bringing to orbit with us.

Sciences
Quest Multi Experiment Module #8 (QUST_NNL08)

Quest Institute for Quality Education | Student-Led Investigation

The QUST_NNL08 investigation features 16 student-designed experiments exploring topics such as magnetism, fluid mechanics, microbial behavior, plant growth, and materials science in microgravity. Students customize their experiment activities on the International Space Station (ISS) and conduct parallel studies on Earth, gaining direct experience in scientific research through Quest Institute’s STEM education initiatives.

The experiments are housed in Space Tango’s automated CubeLab and installed into the TangoLab facility aboard the ISS for on-orbit operations. This hands-on approach empowers students to engage in authentic space science while producing data with potential applications for both space exploration and terrestrial challenges.

Why microgravity?

Microgravity provides an environment where fundamental processes—from crystal growth and bacterial behavior to 3D printing and plant development—can be observed without the influence of gravity. By comparing outcomes in space and on Earth, students gain insight into how living systems and materials adapt to space conditions.

This student-led investigation could inspire the next generation of explorers while contributing knowledge relevant to agriculture, aquaculture, health care, and materials engineering on Earth.