CASIS ARK2 mission patch by Cobra Puma Golf

The Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS) and COBRA PUMA GOLF (CPG) have partnered on a materials science research investigation that is expected to launch to the International Space Station (ISS) on SpaceX-4. The launch is slated to take place no earlier than September 19, 2014. CASIS is responsible for the management of the U.S. National Laboratory on the ISS.

Through this partnership, CPG intends to conduct an investigation on the ISS National Laboratory that would research materials aimed at enhancing its future product lines.

"Since we first partnered with CASIS, we have been looking forward to this opportunity - the chance to utilize the International Space Station for out-of-the-box research and concept design," said COBRA PUMA GOLF President and CEO Bob Philion. "Through this investigation, the research and design team at COBRA PUMA GOLF hopes to gain a better understanding of certain material characteristics that can be used to create some of the most innovative and technologically advanced golf products in the market."

Additionally, CPG has the opportunity to develop the CASIS "Advancing Research Knowledge 2" or "ARK2" mission patch. ARK2 represents the latest series of CASIS-sponsored projects intended for the ISS National Laboratory, including a variety of research investigations ranging from life science, hardware development, and materials research experiments.

CPG will also have the opportunity to become the first company to leverage the CASIS trademarked seal, "Space Is In It." The "Space Is In It" seal will connect station science to American culture by singling out innovative consumer goods that are the result of space research. The seal will increase awareness of the benefits of the ISS National Lab while setting products carrying it apart from their competition.

"CASIS has been tasked by Congress and NASA to work with new and non-traditional researchers for the development of products, therapies, and services onboard the ISS U.S. National Laboratory," said CASIS President and Executive Director Gregory H. Johnson. "Our partnership with COBRA PUMA GOLF is an excellent example of a truly non-traditional research investigation taking advantage of the microgravity environment to advance knowledge in applied materials science."

In June of 2012, CASIS and CPG signed an initial Memorandum of Agreement indicating the initial partnership between the two entities.