Studies in quantum mechanics have helped great inventions such as quantum lasers and improved sensors in space technology. While talking about space technologies and research, scientists are interested in studying microgravity and its relative effects. For many years, NASA astronauts have been conducting research on how liquids behave differently in space microgravity and on the Earth. It has been observed that water droplets merge into floating spheres. Recently, they have found out that with the help of ultra-cold bubbles (gas), this effect can be replicated and the shape can also be changed!
Changing the Quantum Industry
The Cold Atom Lab experimented reshaping the gas with the help of magnetic fields. Scientists took the samples of atoms that have been cooled down above an absolute zero temperature and changed their shapes. Additionally, they tested how the gas behaves under different shapes. According to scientists, this activity was only possible in microgravity environments. Such environments are available at space stations and thus, NASA carried out this technological research at the International Space Station (ISS). The Biological and Physical Sciences (BPS) division of NASA enabled investigations that are not possible on earth.
How will it help Space Industry?
This particular experiment has given scientists opportunities to observe an atom’s quantum properties such as wave-particle property. The most important outcome of this research is that scientists can work on liquid properties including surface tension and viscosity. According to a study by techtimes, scientists will also be able to reverse the effects of gravity that are responsible for the motion of fluids.
As mentioned, reversing the effects of gravity will give tremendous ways to scientists to invent numerous unparalleled practical applications. The ultracold bubbles will be used to do experiments with exotic matter called Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC).
As these experiments have been conducted in Earth’s orbits, there will be improvements in spacecraft navigation systems that study space bodies. Moreover, with the help of inventions in BEC and ultra-cold gases, gravity effects will also be studied.
Final Thoughts
Scientists have relentlessly worked on atoms, gravity, space bodies, liquid behaviors, etc. New inventions turn boosters to work on exceptional topics. Space technology is an interesting discipline to dive into and discoveries like ultra-cold bubbles are very much important for advancements in space technology.
Also Read: Scientists detect and recreate a new phase of water
