Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026

Reduced-gravity Environment Hardware Demonstrations of a Prototype Miniaturized Flow Cytometer and Companion Microfluidic Mixing Technology
Published on: November 13, 2014
A human-powered, small radius centrifuge for space application: a design study
L J Meeker1, W M Isdahl, J W Helduser
1Crew Technology Division, Armstrong Laboratory, Brooks AFB, TX 78235-5104, USA.
Abstract:
The necessity of preventing physiologic deconditioning of astronauts exposed to long duration space flights is well known. A method under consideration to prevent this deconditioning is the use of periodic exposure to artificial gravity which could be provided by a centrifuge. This paper presents a design study for a human-powered centrifuge which could be used aboard the NASA Space Shuttle with analyses which quantify many of the forces produced. Consideration is given to managing reaction forces to changes in centrifuge angular velocity, centrifuge imbalance effects, the effects of gyroscopic moment on spacecraft orientation changes, and torque and power requirements as a function of centrifuge performance parameters. A design concept for a "human powered" centrifuge which could provide both exercise and artificial gravity exposure is also considered.
Related Concept Videos
Dynamics of Circular Motion
Any acceleration must be produced by some force. Therefore, any force or combination of forces can cause centripetal acceleration. A few examples include the tension in the rope on a...
Rocket Propulsion in Gravitational Field - I
The motion of a rocket in space changes its velocity (and hence its...
Rocket Propulsion in Gravitational Field - II
A rocket's acceleration depends on three major factors, consistent with the equation for the...
Circular Orbits and Critical Velocity for Satellites
Nicolaus Copernicus (1473-1543) first suggested that the Earth and all other planets orbit the Sun in...
Centrifugation
Centrifugal Force

