When a spacecraft is in orbit it is in a constant state of freefall. This means that it is constantly accelerating towards the center of the earth. Because of this the astronaughts feel apparent weightlessness, however the force of gravity at standard orbital altitudes is about 98% the same strenght as gravity at sea level.
Microgravity Confinement
Washito A. Sasamoto has written: 'Utilization of the Spacehab module as a microgravity carrier' -- subject(s): Space shuttle payloads, Microgravity, Modules, Microgravity applications, Active control
Scientists send a variety of items to the International Space Station to test the effects of microgravity, including plant seeds, bacteria, cells, and even small animals like mice. These experiments help researchers understand how living organisms respond to space conditions and how microgravity affects biological systems.
Carlos M. Grodsinsky has written: 'Microgravity vibration isolation technology' -- subject(s): Reduced gravity environments, Vibration (Aeronautics) 'Nonintrusive inertial vibration isolation technology for microgravity space experiments' -- subject(s): Vibration isolators, Microgravity, Space shuttles, Spaceborne experiments
Yvonne Simms has written: 'A Christian's guide to discovering God's will' 'Reflight of the First Microgravity Science Laboratory' -- subject(s): Life support systems, Microgravity, Space missions, Space transportation system flights
Microgravity significantly impacts space travel by altering the physical and biological processes of astronauts and spacecraft. In microgravity, fluids behave differently, which can affect systems like fuel management and life support. Additionally, prolonged exposure to microgravity can lead to muscle atrophy, bone density loss, and changes in vision for astronauts. These effects necessitate careful planning for long-duration missions and require countermeasures to maintain astronaut health and mission success.
Microgravity research, ISS component delivery, satellite launch, ferrying astronauts to space stations & satellite repair.
The International Space Station (ISS) is orbiting Earth. It is a collaborative project involving multiple countries and serves as a microgravity and research laboratory in space.
The primary mission of the Space Shuttle Columbia was to carry crew and cargo to space, support scientific research in microgravity, service satellites, and construct and maintain the International Space Station. It played a crucial role in advancing human spaceflight capabilities during its missions.
I mean in microgravity
The condition is called microgravity. It occurs when there is very little gravity affecting the body, such as in space or during free-fall.
The bob of a pendulum in an orbiting space station will appear to float weightlessly due to the effects of microgravity.