Space Experiment Module (SEM)
Research Area: Student-Developed Investigations
Expedition(s): 10-11, 13 and 14
Principal Investigator(s): ● Ruthan Lewis, PhD, NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center,
Greenbelt, Maryland
RESEARCH OBJECTIVES
The Space Experiment Module (SEM) introduces students to the concept of performing space-
based research on the International Space Station (ISS). SEM provides students with the
opportunity to conduct their own research on the effects of microgravity, radiation, and
spaceflight on various materials.
EARTH BENEFITS
Eleven schools are running
experiments on the first Space
Experiment Module (SEM) satchel
flight. The experiments are contained
in clear polycarbonate vials. These
vials are also flown in passive (no
power required) SEM experiment
modules. Students create their own
experiments, and consider such
variables as space radiation,
microgravity, and launch
environment. SEM is educating and
inspiring the next generation to take
the journey.
SPACE BENEFITS
SEM introduces the concept of space-
based scientific experiments to the next generation.
RESULTS
Eleven schools and 3,300 students developed experiments for SEM Satchel 001. The satchel
was launched during ISS Expedition 10 in December 2004 and returned to Earth on Space
Shuttle Discovery (STS-114) in August 2005. The sample vials were returned to the students for
analysis.
This investigation is complete and all results are published.
View of Expedition 13 Space Experiment Module (SEM) Satchel
number 3 open showing vials; Part Number (P/N) GE2067544-003,
Barcode 00031809G. Photo taken in the U.S. Laboratory/Destiny on
the International Space Station during Expedition 13.