Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
NASA's 2025 Annual Highlights of Results from the International Space Station (ISS) report details over 750 scientific investigations conducted during the year. These studies advance understanding of life in space, enhance Earth technologies, and support exploration of the Moon and Mars, according to NASA.
One investigation assessed the feasibility of performing robotic surgical tasks in microgravity. Using rubber bands to simulate procedures, researchers found that communication delays from Earth increased operation times but had minimal effect on the accuracy of the robotic system. This indicates precise surgical procedures may be possible on future lunar or Mars missions, and robotic surgery could also improve remote medical care on Earth.
The Magnetic 3D Bioprinter investigation used magnetic levitation to form complex tissue structures with high precision in microgravity. Researchers organized calcium crystals into synthetic bone grafts that promote bone growth. These samples showed improved structural organization and high capacity for bone tissue regeneration, potentially countering bone loss experienced by astronauts on long-duration missions.
Further research tested the effects of prolonged space vacuum exposure on exploration materials, including polymers, thermal protection systems, spacesuit components, and radiation-shielding materials. Biomaterials infused with fungal melanin, a pigment protecting against ultraviolet radiation, showed the greatest resistance to radiation damage. This suggests biologically derived materials could provide lightweight, sustainable radiation shielding for missions beyond Earth, with uses in medical protection and UV defense on Earth.
These ISS findings from 2025 highlight advancements in space medicine, materials science, and robotics that may benefit future exploration and applications on Earth.