The biological effects of gravity have been acknowledged since Galileo’s time, but only in the last 50 years has the means to study gravitational biology been available.  With the birth of the space age, the opportunity for experimentation over the full spectrum of gravity-related phenomena finally became a reality. A new environment and research tool became available to probe biological phenomena and expand scientific knowledge. 

The American Society for Gravitational and Space Biology (ASGSB) was founded in 1984 and is a growing organization which fosters research, education, training and development in gravitational and space biology.  Society members are drawn from university, government, and industry and represent many disciplines bonded by a interest in a common issue, gravity. Each spring, the Society publishes an annual scientific publication which includes peer-reviewed original articles including those derived from featured symposia presentations.  The society also provides teacher aids covering topics of interest to space biologists.  These aids and other information describing the nature and activities of the ASGSB are available through the internet at http://www.asgsb.org.

The Society offers a widely respected forum for the exchange of scientific data from basic to applied research.  More specifically, the objectives of the ASGSB, as specified by the Society’s constitution are:

• To promote research, education, training and development in the areas of gravitational and space biology and to apply the knowledge gained to a better understanding of gravity and other space environmental factors on the flora and fauna of the Earth.

• To disseminate information on gravitational and space biology research and the application of this research to the solution of terrestrial and space biological problems.

• To provide a forum for communication among professionals in government, business, academia, and other segments of society involved in gravitational and space biological research and application.

• To promote the study of concepts and the implementation of programs that can achieve these ends and further the advancement and welfare of mankind.

NASA’s past support has enabled the Society to meet its objectives: provide a forum for the exchange and publication of scientific information, stimulate interest in gravitational and space biology, and reach out to teachers, students, industry, and the public. The ASGSB asks for your support for the Life and Microgravity Sciences research programs of NASA, as well as for the Society, as we strive to keep America leading the world in utilizing space for improving life.