MCAST brings science and art aboard the International Space Station

The Science Behind ASTROBEAT

In space, metal surfaces that lack oxide layers due to exposure to vacuum can be joined under high contact forces to form a weld at ambient temperature. This natural cold welding phenomenon has previously been a problem in the space environment, causing equipment failures since the 1960s. However, ASTROBEAT is turning this adverse reaction into a potential advantage by exploring how cold welding can be used to repair hull perforations caused by micrometeoroids and space debris from inside a spacecraft.

When high-speed micrometeoroids or space debris impact the outer shell of a spacecraft, they can leave dangerous holes that compromise the safety of the crew and the integrity of the mission. The experimental ASTROBEAT test bed, now aboard the ISS, simulates these conditions by examining whether cold welding can quickly and safely seal perforations from the inside of a spacecraft, offering a safer and more effective solution than EVA (Earth Space Valve) repairs.

Space art meets science with ASTROBEAT

Beyond its scientific purpose, ASTROBEAT embodies a unique cultural mission through its Space Art initiative, coordinated by Dr. Leonardo Barilaro, renowned as an aerospace engineering expert and space pianist, and developed in collaboration with Grammy Award-nominated cellist Tina Go and world-renowned musicians . famous composer Steve Mazzaro.

Known for their work alongside composer Hans Zimmer, Go and Mazzaro brought an exceptional artistic dimension to ASTROBEAT, transforming the experiment into a global educational project. Dr Barilaro, who composed the music for the mission, will broadcast these new compositions directly from space – “Moon Seeds” and “Black Sun” – connecting audiences around the world with the powerful language of music.

“I wanted to increase opportunities for interaction,” Dr Barilaro said. “I believe that in Space there is a place for everyone, literally and figuratively. Space should no longer be seen as only accessible to a select few. Despite the challenges of sending experiments into space, space art is an important tool that brings people together by highlighting how art can make space more inviting and inclusive.”

Following completion of the cold welding tests, these tracks will premiere in two live broadcasts from the ISS (November 25 and 27), which is expected to be a major milestone that will attract the attention of a global audience.