Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #31395: Commercial Breakthroughs in Space Materials: A Closer Look at MISSE-16

The Materials International Space Station Experiment-16-Commercial (MISSE-16C) marks a significant leap in the role of private and academic partners in space exploration. Designed to evaluate the resilience of experimental materials under real space conditions, this project demonstrates the potential for commercial and public collaboration in advancing aerospace technology.

Under the guidance of leaders from MIT, Georgia Tech, Johns Hopkins, and the Air Force Research Lab, a diverse array of materials—ranging from novel polymers to advanced optical coatings—was sent into orbit. These materials were placed on the MISSE Flight Facility attached to the International Space Station (ISS) to endure the space environment: atomic oxygen, UV radiation, temperature extremes, and vacuum conditions.

The primary goal of MISSE-16C is to generate empirical data about how these materials age and perform in orbit. Results help scientists refine materials for everything from satellite components to medical instruments used in space. Even consumer industries stand to benefit, as innovations could lead to more durable coatings and lightweight structures.

This experiment is a great example of how universities and companies contribute directly to national space capabilities. For instance, data from Henkel Corporation’s adhesive materials and MIT’s nanostructures might shape the future of modular spacecraft assembly.

The multidisciplinary team also included public health experts, aerospace engineers, and materials scientists—highlighting the broad implications of this research.

Through MISSE-16C, we see that the future of space doesn’t belong to one entity—it’s a collective mission involving scientists, companies, and students from all over the world.

Join the Agnirva Space Internship Program

Get certified with over 100 hours of immersive, self-paced learning in astronomy, cosmology, space technology, and climate science through the Agnirva Space Internship Program. Join, complete virtual projects, and earn a digital certificate to showcase your space fluency in interviews, resumes, and beyond.