The U.S. ISS Module Unity in a neutral buoyancy tank.

Materials:

• Water Container: Fish Bowl, Bucket, or other clear container 2 liters or greater
  
  
• Air enclosures: Medicine Dropper or empty film canisters
  
  
• Variable weight: Various types of washers or clay

Background:

Weightlessness on Earth is simulated in water by a process called Neutral Buoyancy. By varying the amount of weight and air attached to a body a close approximation of Microgravity can be created. NASA has a large Neutral Buoyancy tank in Huntsville Alabama and Russia has one at Star City for use by ISS Astronauts.

Activity:

Fill the water container half way. Vary the amount of air inside the air enclosure, and the amount of weight attached to the air enclosure, When done correctly the air enclosure should appear to float in one spot underwater indefinitely,

 

 

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