Scientists aboard the International Space Station will have a bit more room for some experiments with the Microgravity Science Glovebox Unit (MSGU).

The MSGU is an expanded and improved version of a unit known as the Middeck Glovebox flown aboard the shuttle and space station Mir.

Both units are clear plastic boxes with gloves attached. Scientists use them to safely manipulate experiments using fluids, chemicals and molten materials.

Scientists at Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama are testing a non-flying version provided by the European Space Agency, which is also providing the one going into orbit.

Some of the microgravity projects already conducted in space with the middeck box include flame experiments and research into new alloys.