Author: Brandon Aquino
Imagine being able to walk, run, and work like you would normally on earth but in the depths of space as if earth's gravity followed you into the cosmos. This is the concept of artificial gravity. Artificial Gravity has so far been a science fiction that fascinates scientists and writers alike. But beyond the pages of science fiction novels; artificial gravity offers opportunities to revolutionize space exploration and unlock much more for humanity. What exactly is artificial gravity, and how close is humanity to achieving it?
In theory, artificial gravity refers to the simulation of gravitational forces in environments where gravity is negligible or basically non-existent, like in outer space. On Earth, gravity is a force that keeps our feet on the ground and governs the laws of nature. However, in the gravitational environment of space, astronauts experience many detrimental effects without this force, such as muscle atrophy, bone density loss, and fluid redistribution, which pose a massive risk for astronauts on long term missions. Astronauts can lose up to 1% of their bone density per month in space. Without gravity, fluids shift towards the upper body, which can affect the functions of the heart. Prolonged exposure without gravity can lead to impaired spatial orientation which in turn can lead to motion sickness. Many astronauts have reported a level of stress due to the lack of familiarity and disorientation.
Artificial gravity aims to cut down the issues faced by our astronauts by recreating a desired gravitational pull. Artificial gravity would be achieved by manipulating centrifugal forces, acceleration, and other physical principles to simulate the feeling of weight. Artificial gravity could provide a stable environment for human activity, which would enable astronauts to live normally in space, without any danger to their health and well-being.
Artificial gravity would work mainly through a Newtonian mechanic, centrifugal force. Tsiolkovsky was one of the first to propose the idea of a rotating spacecraft to create artificial gravity. He introduced this concept in his 1883 manuscript Free Space In theory, artificial gravity would work by spinning a spacecraft or habitat fast enough to create meaningful centrifugal force. centrifugal force pushes objects outward, which mimics the sensation of gravity. Larger and Faster spinning structures would have a stronger effect.
The main challenge is designing a system, so people are comfortable enough for regular activities, and avoiding the dizziness caused by consistent rotation. Known for his work in rocket science, von Braun popularized the concept of a rotating space station in the mid-20th century. Larger sizes and higher speeds result in stronger artificial gravity, but excessive rotation speed can lead to disorientation and nausea. There are many other theoretical ways of achieving artificial gravity, such as linear acceleration, where a spacecraft maintains constant speed in one direction, which creates a sensation of gravity similar to when you're in an elevator. This method requires continuous fuel consumption for thrust, making it impractical for long-term missions.
Many organizations such as the International Space Station and Nasa have somewhat researched into designing a rotating habitat, however the time and money necessary to achieve such a feat would be impractical on all accounts. Seeing how speed and size, effect centrifugal force, a large habitat is necessary seeing as how a habitat that rotates too fast would lead to the Coriolis effect, which causes dizziness, but this requires more construction effort. ISS has researched into the effects of centrifugal forces on biological systems, which brings humanity that much closer to achieving this “fake gravity”. NASA and other organizations have proposed designs for rotating habitats. Private space companies have shown interest in artificial gravity and new tools improve the viability of commercial space travel. Emerging technologies are definitely a huge factor in the development of artificial gravity. Lightweight yet durable materials could make the construction of large rotating habitats much easier, especially when considering the environment of construction.
From lunar colonies to Mars settlements, artificial gravity is capable of reshaping the future of humanity in space. Artificial gravity would be a testament to the power of imagination and innovation, filling the gap between science fiction and reality. The road towards scientific breakthrough is full of obstacles, but the dream of artificial gravity keeps sparking the minds of scientists and the hearts of dreamers alike. Arthur C. Clarke once said, “The only way to discover the limits of the possible is to go beyond them into the impossible.”
References
Clement, Gregory, and Angelia Bukley. Artificial Gravity.
Gibson, "Effects of Centrifugal Force on Biological Systems in Space." NASA Research Journal, 2013.
Lee, James. "Linear Acceleration and Its Applications in Space Habitats." "Bone Loss in Space." NASA, "Rotating Habitats for Artificial Gravity." NASA
Smith, Harold, et al. "Physiological Effects of Microgravity on Astronauts." Journal of Space Medicine, vol. 10, no. 3, 2014, pp. 45–52.
Clarke, Arthur C. Profiles of the Future. Harper & Row, 1962.