This post explores what it might be like Working in Zero-Gravity conditions.
Introduction to Working in Zero-Gravity
On earth we are used to working with a gravitational force which keeps us centred and steady. It also makes for fairly predictable results when carrying out every day activities. Up in space is a different matter all together because there is no gravity. Working in Zero-Gravity means that astronauts do not have anything to push against. For example, if an astronaut pushes on something (a handle or a door). Instead of the push yielding predictable results (the handle moves down, the door opens), the astronaut finds himself floating upwards in the opposite direction! And a space suits exacerbates this situation. The astronaut needs to work with bulky material covering his whole body, making simple tasks harder than on earth.
Working in Zero-Gravity
The following activity demonstrates what it might be like inside a spacesuit Working in Zero-Gravity.
Gather together some lidded test-tubes (or small jars – baby food jars would work) and a pair of washing up gloves. Fill a fish tank (or similar) with water:
First try screwing on and off the lids as normal. Then try again with the washing up gloves on. This simulates the difficulty of working with a spacesuit on. Next try to screw and unscrew the lids underneath the water. This is much harder and simulates what it might be like to work in a spacesuit outside a spacecraft in zero-gravity:
You can make this activity even harder by using nuts and bolts, or syringes from medicine bottles (fill syringe)
We have been using Apologia: Astronomy for our main text for our unit study. For more space and astronomy related posts click on the pictures below. I will be adding to these as and when I can:
