This container holds three syringes of the type used in protein crystal growth experiments on the Space Shuttle. Astronauts activated experiments by injecting a solution into a growth cell to start the process of protein crystal growth. The growth cells remained in a temperature controlled apparatus for a specified time. By experimenting with different proteins, solutions, and growth conditions, researchers learned more about producing protein crystals large enough to be studied well. This knowledge is important for medical, drug, and agricultural research. A group of researchers actively involved in experiments for Shuttle flights gave these syringes and a large set of protein crystal grown equipment to the Museum.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
EQUIPMENT-Scientific Devices
Manufacturer
Hamilton Company
Dimensions
3-D (cylinder): 14 x 4.4cm (5 1/2 x 1 3/4 in.)
Materials
plastic, magnets
Inventory Number
A20120275000
Credit Line
Gift of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Center for Biological Sciences and Engineering
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.