Dr. Raven Baxter attends the 2022 International Space Station Research and Development Conference

I had the opportunity to attend the 2022 International Space Station Research and Development Conference, courtesy of NASA (thank you, NASA!!)

There, I learned alllll about the fascinating research that is being done on the International Space Station.

Honestly, when NASA invited me, at first I was genuinely curious to know how I would relate to the work being done on the ISS. For some reason, I was under the impression that they weren't doing a lot of biology research. I was WRONG!

I was also very happy to see such a huge focus on STEM outreach programming from the National Labs.

Special congratulations to the 2022 Genes In Space winner, Pristine Onuoha! When they announced her win, her mother joyously shouted from the audience. We were all so proud.

Among the many cherished moments of the conference, the highlight for me was meeting NASA Astronaut Dr. Jeanette Epps! We connected on many things including our shared support for the Buffalo Bills, our height, and so much more. One of the first things that she said to me was "Raven, we have to get you to space."

I am afraid of heights LOL. I said I might meet her up there. We will see!