CSS recently attended the International Space Station Research and Development Conference in Boston, Massachusetts. This conference is a gathering of professionals conducting research and developing technology in the microgravity environment of space. CSS was a gold sponsor for the conference and co-hosted a session entitled Payload Pandemonium along with the director of payload operations for the International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory, and the NASA manager of the ISS Research Integration Office. The hosts led participants through (probably the first ever) payload operations game, which helped the audience understand payload procedures, timeline, and contingencies. Participants played for a chance to win a bottle of Zero Gravity wine from Michael David Winery, wine that was made using isolated yeast from grape juice launched into space and fermented in the microgravity environment. The audience was excited and engaged in the game.  

Throughout the conference CSS senior management met with potential partners, attended sessions, and networked with space scientists and colleagues.  

People at a conference talking near an exhibit
The conference provided the opportunity for CSS to expand our space science network. 
People on stage wearing squid and shark hats.
The debut of the (probably) first ever Payload Pandemonium game show was a success! 

For 25 years CSS has supported space science research and technology and continues to grow the science portfolio. As CSS continues to expand the space division, this conference was the optimal way for CSS to make connections as well as build and foster partnerships.

People at a conference talking near an exhibit

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