Rnz: Our Changing World

In March 2024, a rocket launched from Florida carrying New Zealand’s first science payload to the International Space Station. The small cube, named Lucy, is a protein crystallisation lab developed by Dr Sarah Kessans from the University of Canterbury. Protein crystallisation is often the key first step in figuring out a protein structure, and the unique fluid conditions of microgravity in low Earth orbit helps the process. Working with several collaborators, Sarah is trying to develop a commercially viable crystallisation lab in space. Plus, Dr Brian Russell is creating AI tools to help space companies make critical decisions around astronaut health and safety. Sign up to the Our Changing World monthly newsletter for episode backstories, science analysis and more.Guests:Associate Professor Sarah Kessans, University of CanterburyDr Brian Russell, Auckland Bioengineering Institute and AUTLearn more:Read more: New Zealand in the low Earth orbit economy.Researchers in the Paihau Robinson Research institute are a