Protein Experiment: Scientific Data Processing Platform for On-Flight Experiment Tuning

In 2009, the PROTEIN experiment was run on board of the Columbus module of the International Space Station to investigate the crystallization of proteins in microgravity using the Protein Crystallization Diagnostics Facility. This instrument was designed to allow almost real time modification of remote-operated space experiments on request by the Science Team. The complexity of the experiments and the expected high volume of raw scientific data required the development of ad-hoc analysis tools in order to provide scientist with a quick and in-depth picture of experiment progress. The integrated data analysis platform presented in this paper allowed early inspection of running experiment results and provided information for impromptu, fine-tuning experimental conditions. The feedback loop starting with remote data acquisition, followed by on ground analysis performed by the platform and finishing with experiment redesign and update, is described through several examples.

Publication year:2012

Keywords:microgravity, protein, crystallisation, nucleation, DLS