Microgravity Topics
The Physicsof Whipped Cream
2008 — April 6, 2011
An experiment in space has shed new light on the puzzling Physicsof some everyday substances such as blood, ketchup, motor oil and whipped cream.
Conjuring Crystals
2001 — April 6, 2011
Discovered in space, an amazing method for growing well-ordered crystals is working here on Earth, too. NASA scientists are figuring out the Physicsbehind the procedure.
Samples of the Future
2001 — Sept. 20, 2011
The advanced space ships of tomorrow will be crafted from far-out materials with extraordinary resistance to the harsh environment of space. An experiment strapped to the outside of the ISS aims to put such materials through their paces.
Look Ma -- No Hands!
2001 — April 6, 2011
Using a force field to float molten test samples precisely in mid-air, NASA's Electrostatic Levitator creates a unique environment for space-age materials processing.
Antibiotics from Space
2002 — April 6, 2011
Some bacteria riding on the Space Shuttleproduce more antibiotics than they do on Earth. Researchers aren't sure why ... but they aim to find out.
A New Form of Matter
2002 — April 6, 2011
Scientists have created a new kind of matter: It comes in waves and bridges the gap between the everyday world of humans and the micro-domain of quantum physics.
Mossy Space Spirals
2002 — Sept. 20, 2011
Samples of fire moss that travel onboard the Space Shuttledo something odd: they spiral. Scientists say it's a clue to the fundamental inner workings of plant cells.
Sowing Seeds in a Magnetic Field
2002 — April 6, 2011
Scientists hope that an unusual experiment slated for launch on the Space Shuttlethis summer will reveal how plants know up from down.
My Pet Neutron Star
2002 — Sept. 20, 2011
Using a new form of matter called Bose-Einstein condensates, researchers are bringing Astrophysicsfrom deep space right into their laboratories.
Cell Wars
2002 — Sept. 20, 2011
Immune cells vs. invaders: it's a war going on in every healthy human body. When the combatants travel to space, say NASA scientists, curious things happen...