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The Science Cube is a compact, in-house-developed laboratory designed to accelerate microgravity research. As a reusable, plug-and-play payload, it offers a fast and flexible pathway to the ISS for a wide range of scientific experiments.
With its adaptable architecture, the Science Cube supports a broad spectrum of research objectives, being capable of accommodating a variety of research samples, including fungi, bacteria, seeds, fluids, cell cultures, biomaterials, and even small organoids. Its design allows for rapid mission integration, streamlining the entire process from sample preparation on the ground to experimentation in orbit, making it ideal for studies in life sciences, biotechnology, and materials research under microgravity conditions.
Two versions of the Science Cube are available to suit different experimental needs. The original Mk1 model houses up to six samples at ambient temperature and is equipped with thermal sensors and an internal camera with dedicated lighting, enabling remote monitoring and control from the ground once installed aboard the ISS. The upgraded Mk2 version retains these core features while doubling the sample capacity to twelve. It also introduces active thermal control, allowing researchers to precisely regulate internal temperatures, ideal for temperature-sensitive studies or experiments requiring incubation.
For enhanced capabilities, the Science Cube can be optionally paired with the AI-Box, enabling real-time, in-situ analysis of collected data. After the mission, the Cube is returned to Earth with the samples securely inside, allowing researchers to conduct detailed post-flight analysis back in their labs.
With proven flight heritage, the Science Cube has supported five missions to the ISS to date. The original Mk1 version flew on Malta’s first space missions, Maleth I, II, and III, facilitating research into the human skin microbiome in diabetic foot ulcers by culturing cells in orbit for genomic sequencing upon return to Earth. More recently, the enhanced Mk2 version was used in Oxford’s Ageing Beyond Earth 1.0 and 2.0 missions, hosting 3D joint organoids in microgravity to explore the cellular and molecular mechanisms of ageing and osteoarthritis. Read more about these missions in the related articles below.
The Science Cube exemplifies a streamlined, end-to-end approach to space research, featuring reusable hardware that accelerates the journey from lab to orbit. Its adaptable design and rapid deployment capabilities reflect a broader commitment to making microgravity research more accessible, efficient, and impactful.
Learn more from the factsheet attached below to better understand how the Science Cube can support your research goals in orbit. Make sure to explore the rest of our Asset Catalogue.
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