Do Magnets Work In Space?
Do Magnets Work In Space?
Magnets serve a multitude of purposes in space, with ongoing research exploring even more potential applications. Unlike many other items that require additional tools or equipment to function in space, magnets can operate without any added assistance. They do not require gravity or air to function, as their power is generated by their self-contained electromagnetic field.
Although a category of magnets known as electromagnets requires electricity to function, they can still work in space if an electric current is supplied.
How are magnets used in space?
Magnets have proven to be a valuable tool for scientists and astronauts in space. In the unpredictable environment of outer space, the predictability of magnetism is highly valuable.
Magnets in exploration
NASA's Mars Rovers utilize magnets to gather magnetic dust from the surface of Mars. The hope is that by studying the magnetic dust, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of Mars' geology and mineral composition.
Magnets for securing objects on the ISS
In microgravity, objects cannot be left unsecured on surfaces as they are prone to floating away, causing astronauts to spend time searching for lost items. Hence, all items used in a spacecraft must be firmly fastened using methods such as velcro, clips, duct tape, elastic bungees, or magnets. For instance, magnets are placed on food trays to prevent cutlery from floating away or to keep the tray from drifting off.
Magnets in medical research
In April 2020, a team of Japanese scientists conducted a study involving live mice and plant cells grown on the International Space Station, with the aim of examining how bone cells in animals may be affected by prolonged spaceflight. The researchers hope that this study will aid in the preparation of long-term human space expeditions. To achieve this, the bone cells from space will be compared to those that were magnetically levitated in a lab on Earth. This comparison will help the scientists determine if magnetic levitation can simulate microgravity accurately. In the future, the study of bone cells could lead to the development of better preventative care or therapeutic treatments for individuals experiencing bone loss, both on Earth and in space.
Magnets for controlling environment during scientific research
As previously mentioned, magnets are essential for securing objects in place in space. Electromagnets are particularly useful for this purpose, as they can be employed to isolate samples and experiments from vibrations. Scientists were uncertain if vibrations could potentially disrupt experiments. To address this, electromagnets are used to keep experiments stationary. An example of this can be seen in the Controlled Dynamics Locker on board the ISS, which houses an electromagnet that causes the experiment container to hover, preventing it from coming into contact with any other surfaces. This is especially important for medical applications. For instance, there is debate regarding the effects of vibrations on protein crystal growth, a critical area of research that could lead to the development of preventative measures for allergic reactions to proteins in food, as well as misshapen proteins associated with brain diseases like Alzheimer's.
Future of magnets in space
Magnets have proven to be invaluable in space exploration, but there are many more ways in which they could be utilized to advance our efforts. For example, one idea is to use magnets as a source of fuel. While the original computer on the Apollo Eleven mission was powered by a magnet, this technology has not yet been developed for large-scale power generation.
Another potential application of magnets in space exploration is to shield spacecraft and space stations from radiation. Additionally, there is some consideration of using magnets to collect debris from broken satellites that are orbiting Earth.
