MinION DNA Sequencer
MinION DNA Sequencer
A MinION DNA sequencing unit, made by the UK company that made the device used for the first DNA sequencing done in space.NASA astronaut Kate Rubin sequenced DNA in space for the first time in August 2016, using a MinION DNA sequencer identical to this one. Research into DNA has been done on the International Space Station for many years, with samples being sent back to Earth for processing. This device, made by the British company Oxford Nanopore Technologies, allows astronauts to process DNA samples aboard the spacecraft.
Spending long periods in space exposes astronauts to radiation that can damage DNA. Therefore, research into DNA and the impact of exposing it to the space environment is critical. Portable DNA sequencers, like this one, also allow astronauts to investigate potential contamination in things like water supplies, quickly being able to identify bacteria and other pathogens. This makes portable DNA sequencers a valuable spaceflight tool for the future of long duration spaceflight missions.
More information
Object number
H2024-2
Location
Artefact Store
Has this object been into space?
No
Dimension - Dimension, Value, Measurement unit
Length: 10.5cm
Width: 3.3cm
Depth: 2.3cm
Length (Unfolded): 21cm
Weight: 0.1kg
Material
Metal
Plastic
Object Production Date
2023 - 2024
Object Production Organisation
Oxford Nanopore Technologies PLC
Object Production Place
United Kingdom
Oxford
On Display Status
Handling collection
Copyright and Photos
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
