A large enough structure to simulate Earth-like gravity could be launched on a single rocket - Universe Today by AndyTomaswick
Artificial gravity remains the stuff of science fiction. But dealing with no gravity causes significant problems in many astronauts, ranging from bone deterioration to loss of sight. An alternative method that might eliminate some of these problems is “simulated gravity,” which uses a spinning structure to create centrifugal force that would have the same effect on the body as gravity would. Whether or not this would solve the problems caused by lack of gravity remains to be seen.
The project in question is “Kilometer-Scale Space Structure from a Single Launch,” which was initially admitted to the NIAC program last year. Over the past year, they successfully completed a Phase I project where they “analyze[d] a mission concept analogous to the Lunar Gateway” that could deploy into a kilometer-long structure.
This isn’t the first NIAC project addressing the idea of large structures in space, though. NextBigFutureon around a dozen NIAC funded projects that would take advantage of new metamaterials to dramatically expand their size once in space. NASA isn’t alone in their support either – China’s National Science Foundation has supported efforts to develop aSuch large structures need large investment, but they also have large potential benefits.
Fitting that much material in a single rocket launch so far has proven impossible. But, Dr. Manchester and his team think they have found a potential solution to the impossible problem – a “high-expansion-ratio deployable structure” or HERDS. HERDS themselves utilize two novel mechanical innovations – shearing auxetics and branched scissor mechanisms.
Shearing auxetics are a novel type of metamaterial that will expand when pulled in a chiral pattern. The level of chirality can also control the stiffness of the material. They seem to be gaining traction in robotic applications as linear actuators and grippers, but their use case in space has yet to be proven.Branched scissor mechanisms are another way to deploy a larger structure from a compact one.
Indonesia Berita Terbaru, Indonesia Berita utama
Similar News:Anda juga dapat membaca berita serupa dengan ini yang kami kumpulkan dari sumber berita lain.
As Vaccine Demand Falls, States Are Left With Huge StockpileAs demand to get COVID-19 vaccines in the U.S. collapses in many areas, states are scrambling to use stockpiles of doses before they expire and have to be added to the millions that have already gone to waste.
Baca lebih lajut »
Huge strikes at Nigeria’s universities are disrupting researchOyewale Tomori, virologist and fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Science, talks about strikes in Nigerian public universities, and the wider impact on science and students.
Baca lebih lajut »
Arthritis drug reduces mortality in severe COVID-19, huge clinical trial findsBaricitinib, a drug commonly used by people with rheumatoid arthritis, reduced hospitalized COVID19 patients’ risk of dying by 13% when taken with other proven COVID-19 drugs.
Baca lebih lajut »
As demand falls, states are left with huge vaccine stockpileIt also comes only about a year after people desperate to get the vaccine attempted to jump in line to get ahead of those deemed higher priority. Hospital board members, their trustees and donors a…
Baca lebih lajut »
The Weeknd Announces Tour With Doja Cat, Launches XO Humanitarian Fund With Huge DonationThe After Hours Til Dawn Tour will support ‘Dawn FM’ while also spotlighting ‘After Hours.’
Baca lebih lajut »
OneRepublic to play 2 huge N.J. shows this summerRyan Tedder's long-running pop band will hit the road for their Never Ending Summer Tour with NEEDTOBREATHE starting in July.
Baca lebih lajut »