Analysis of the Quality of Parabolic FlightParabolic flight allows researchers to conduct several micro-gravity experiments, each with up to 20 seconds of micro-gravity, in the course of a single day. However, the quality of the flight environment can vary greatly over the course of a single parabola, thus affecting the experimental results. Researchers therefore require knowledge of the actual flight environment as a function of time. The NASA Flight Opportunities program (FO) has reviewed the acceleration data for over 400 parabolas and investigated the level of micro-gravity quality. It was discovered that a typical parabola can be segmented into multiple phases with different qualities and durations. The knowledge of the microgravity characteristics within the parabola will prove useful when planning an experiment.
Document ID
20160007931
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Abstract
Authors
Lambot, Thomas (Millennium Engineering and Integration Co. Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Ord, Stephan F. (NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)