Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #30024: Commercial Science in Space: Procter & Gamble's Colloid Research on the ISS

When consumer goods giant Procter & Gamble enters the space lab, you know science is getting practical. The Advanced Colloids Experiment-Temperature-6 (ACE-T6), led by Dr. Matthew Lynch, took colloid research to the International Space Station (ISS) to answer vital questions about particle stability under temperature shifts.

Colloids are found in nearly every product we use—shampoos, detergents, foods, and more. They’re complex, sensitive systems where tiny particles are suspended in liquids. Small changes in temperature can dramatically alter their properties.

On Earth, gravity skews how particles move and interact. But in space, researchers observed how these mixtures behave without gravity, focusing only on temperature effects. The ACE-T6 study aimed to improve formulations for household products by understanding these pure thermal behaviors.

For Procter & Gamble, this isn’t just curiosity—it’s about crafting better, longer-lasting, and more effective products. Imagine laundry detergent that doesn’t separate over time or face cream that maintains its texture perfectly. That’s the practical magic of space science.

Part of NASA’s collaborative effort with commercial partners, ACE-T6 bridges fundamental science and commercial innovation.

Space research isn’t always about stars and galaxies—sometimes, it’s about getting your shampoo just right.

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