Zero Gravity Mass Measurement Device (ZGMMD) Parabolic Flight Test

There are currently no mass measurement devices available on the International Space Station (ISS) that can accurately measure objects with a relatively low mass, or objects sensitive to accelerations, such as live animal specimens. Ground-based biology (plant and physical science) researchers use mass measurements as a fundamental data parameter. In order to compare microgravity research results with experiments conducted on the ground, mass measurement capabilities are essential and must be provided in the space laboratory setting. Experimental procedures are restricted without an appropriate mass measuring device, one of the most basic instruments in any scientific laboratory. The Zero Gravity Mass Measurement Device (ZGMMD) has been developed to quantify the mass of objects, including live animal specimens, in the microgravity environment onboard the ISS. In parabolic flight demonstrations conducted in 2016, researchers collected mass measurement data to evaluate system performance in microgravity, and detailed notes to document operation of the system for subsequent evaluation of human factors in microgravity. Researchers expect the flight testing to aid in refinement of the system design to optimize performance for application in the microgravity environment. Future applications include biological research in orbital space, such as current rodent research being conducted on the ISS.