An Overview of the Human Research Facility (HRF) for the International Space Station (ISS)

Scheduled for an initial launch in the first quarter of the year 2000, the Human Research Facility (HRF) will provide the first major pieces of biomedical research hardware for Life Sciences investigations on the International Space Station (ISS). The HRF will support scientific studies in the fields of biochemistry and metabolism, cardiopulmonary physiology, environmental sciences, human factors, musculoskeletal physiology, neurosciences, and psychology and behavior. To date, twenty seven experiments have been selected for further definition. HRF hardware will include a gas analyzing mass spectrometer, a body mass measurement device, an ultrasound machine, a computer workstation/data storage device, a strength measurement device, a range of motion suit, and a number of stowed hardware items.