Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #32348: Exploring Space Through Time: Archaeology Aboard the ISS

When we think of archaeology, we often picture dusty ruins, ancient pottery, and old bones buried deep in the Earth. But what happens when archaeology takes a bold leap into the future—into space? That’s exactly what the International Space Station Archaeological Project is all about. Led by Dr. Justin Walsh of Chapman University, this unique endeavor is the first of its kind to bring archaeological research into orbit.

Rather than studying ancient civilizations, this project focuses on understanding the material culture of the International Space Station (ISS) itself—what the astronauts use, how they use it, and how these items reflect life in space. The Sampling Quadrangle Assemblages Research Experiment involves mapping and collecting data from specific areas aboard the ISS. These areas, called quadrangles, are surveyed in detail to record how tools, containers, personal items, and equipment are organized and used over time.

By capturing how objects shift location, degrade, or gain significance, the team aims to understand how a microgravity environment influences social behavior, memory, and daily routines. This project is like creating a time capsule of human life in space, showing how astronauts adapt to living and working far from Earth.

With collaboration from Axiom Space and the support of NASA, the experiment provides critical insights not only into life aboard the ISS but also into how future space habitats might be designed to better suit human needs. This is more than just science—it’s a cultural record of our cosmic journey.

Join the Agnirva Space Internship Program

Get certified with over 100 hours of immersive, self-paced learning in 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.