In reality, astronauts on the ISS experience approximately 90% of Earth's gravity. This means that gravity is not absent in space, but rather, astronauts experience a state called weightlessness. The reason behind this phenomenon is that the ISS is constantly falling towards Earth due to its gravitational pull. Surprisingly, the ISS is in a state of free fall, and if it were not for its incredible speed of around 28,000 km/h, it would crash into our planet.
The ISS maintains its distance from Earth because its velocity, directed parallel to Earth's surface, is high enough to counteract the effects of Earth's gravity. This delicate balance allows the space station to remain at a constant distance from the Earth while keeping the astronauts inside in a state of weightlessness.
Experiencing weightlessness without leaving the Earth is possible through the use of a zero-G plane. For the steep price of approximately $10,000, thrill-seekers can purchase a ticket to experience this unique sensation. Each zero-G flight lasts about 90 to 100 minutes and includes fifteen parabolic maneuvers, each simulating a period of reduced gravity.
These parabolas consist of one simulating Martian gravity (one-third of Earth's gravity), two simulating lunar gravity (one-sixth of Earth's gravity), and 12 simulating complete weightlessness. The plane ascends at a 45-degree angle to an altitude of around 7,000 meters, peaks at 9,800 meters, and then descends at a 30-degree angle. This process creates approximately 30 seconds of reduced gravity for passengers, allowing them to experience the sensation of weightlessness that astronauts encounter in space.
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