A startup called Gravitilab from the UK yesterday, February 2, conducted a first-of-its-kind experiment to create the effect of microgravity using a special drone – and this is a real revolution in the scientific field, which can significantly accelerate research in many directions. To do this, the company’s specialists raised their special drone to a rather impressive height of 600 meters, which dropped a unique capsule in the specified location as part of a scientific experiment. As the capsule fell to the ground, the payload inside it experienced the effect of microgravity (weightlessness) for just over five seconds.
It is likely that non-science people will think that five seconds is too short to be considered a breakthrough or a significant achievement, but in fact, for terrestrial conditions, this is really a huge step. The fact is that at the moment, the only opportunity for scientists in Europe to conduct ground tests in microgravity is the so-called “free fall tower” (Bremen microgravity tower) in Germany. This is a special structure with a height of 146 meters, which was built in 1980, allowing scientists to get the effect of microgravity in just two seconds. At the same time, to access the tower, you need to obtain the appropriate permission and wait in line for several years, which significantly slows down various studies.
Startup Gravitilab said that their development is much cheaper than using a tower in Germany, plus scientists will be able to perform a number of studies in any place that suits them, which is also much easier and faster. Moreover, the company’s specialists are confident that in the future they will be able to improve the parameters of their drone and ultimately demonstrate from 5 to 20 seconds of the microgravity effect. Compared to specific towers (they are not only in Germany, but analogues provide less time in zero gravity) and aircraft that provide the effect of microgravity, this drone is really cheaper and it will make a real revolution in this direction.
Unfortunately, so far no one has provided accurate information regarding the cost of this drone and a special capsule. Naturally, it will be much cheaper and faster, but whether the drone will be sold in the public domain for everyone or access to the technology can be obtained solely on the basis of a grant or special permission is an open question.
Source: Trash Box
I’m Meagan Diaz, a news writer and author at World Stock Market. My main focus is on technology and stock market trends, and I’m passionate about helping readers stay informed on the ever-changing landscape. I bring extensive knowledge of the industry to my work as well as a knack for storytelling that makes my articles both accessible and engaging.
