Russian 2014 space program implementation starts on February 5, 20014 with Progress M-22M cargo vehicle launch. The vehicle will deliver more than 2,5 tons of cargos to the ISS, even container with goldfish for Aquarium-AQH experiment, – Roscosmos representative reported.

The launch of Soyuz-U booster with Progress M-22M cargo vehicle from Baikonur spaceport is scheduled for 20:23 Moscow time. The docking will take place at 02:26 Moscow time on February 6.

“Aquarium-AQH experiment is planned to be conducted in the American ISS segment, in Japanese Kibo module in JAXA Aquatic Habitat (AQH) aquarium. Among other biological objects sent to the station are wigglers and flat earthworms”, – the spokesman noted.

Russian-Japanese Aquarium-AQH experiment is aimed at the exploration of space flight impact on closed ecological system and its elements (plants, animals, fish) sustainability under microgravity conditions.

Besides the scientists hope to get new data on long-term storage opportunity of entomostracans eggs and its ability to reactivate after exhibiting under space flight conditions.

According to the specialists the information received in the result of experiment is of great importance both for fundamental science and for works on space crews life-support systems development on the basis of biological matter cycle.

Progress M-22M will also deliver to the ISS fuel for orbit maintenance, equipment to station’s upgrade, foodstuffs, water and air for the cosmonauts and packs with scientific equipment for experiments.

Among all cargos there are about 500 kg for the American ISS segment, these are American, European and Japanese cargoes delivered under commercial contract.

Image credit – RSC Energia