Czech  Orbital   NanoRobots   Experiment 

The experiment uses magnetically controlled and photosensitive microrobots placed inside sealed microcells filled with biofilms.
An electromagnetic coil system generates precisely oriented 3D magnetic fields to steer the microrobots, while a digital microscope records their movement and biofilm removal in real time.
The hardware operates within the ICE Cubes Facility on the ISS, with astronauts exchanging up to 20 microcells during the campaign. Data and videos are stored onboard and downlinked for scientific analysis.

Assess the efficacy of magnetic microrobots in removing bacterial biofilms in microgravity.

Study the motion dynamics and propulsion of light-driven and magnetic nanorobots under space conditions.

Investigate how microgravity affects biofilm resistance and microrobot performance.

Compare space and ground control data to optimize future microrobot designs for biomedical and industrial applications.

In space, CONREX supports crew health and spacecraft safety by addressing biofilm buildup in life-support systems — a critical risk for Lunar Gateway and Mars missions.
On Earth, the same technology could transform infection control, medical device hygiene, and industrial biofouling prevention, providing a non-antibiotic alternative to fighting resistant bacteria.
The findings will advance both space health systems and biomedical nanotechnology for terrestrial use.

The CONREX project is led by VSB – Technical University of Ostrava, with TRL Space (Czech Republic) responsible for space engineering, integration, and safety assurance, and supported by the ICE Cubes Facility (Belgium) for ISS operations.
The experiment follows ESA and ECSS standards for safety, qualification, and ISS compatibility.