MicroGravity Explorer Kit (MGX): An Open-Source Platform for Accessible Space Science Experiments

Abstract

The study of microgravity, a condition in which an object experiences near-zero weight, is a critical area of research with far-reaching implications for various scientific disciplines. Microgravity allows scientists to investigate fundamental physical phenomena influenced by Earth’s gravitational forces, opening up new possibilities in fields such as materials science, fluid dynamics, and biology. However, the complexity and cost of developing and conducting microgravity missions have historically limited the field to well-funded space agencies, universities with dedicated government funding, and large research institutions, creating a significant barrier to entry. This paper presents the MicroGravity Explorer Kit’s (MGX) design, a multifunctional platform for conducting microgravity experiments aboard suborbital rocket flights. The MGX aims to democratize access to microgravity research, making it accessible to high school students, undergraduates, and researchers. To ensure that the tool is versatile across different scenarios, the authors conducted a comprehensive literature review on microgravity experiments, and specific requirements for the MGX were established. The MGX is designed as an open-source platform that supports various experiments, reducing costs and accelerating development. The multipurpose experiment consists of a Jetson Nano computer with multiple sensors, such as inertial sensors, temperature and pressure, and two cameras with up to 4k resolution. The project also presents examples of codes for data acquisition and compression and the ability to process images and run machine learning algorithms to interpret results. The MGX seeks to promote greater participation and innovation in space sciences by simplifying the process and reducing barriers to entry. The design of a platform that can democratize access to space and research related to space sciences has the potential to lead to groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in materials science, fluid dynamics, and biology, with significant practical applications such as more efficient propulsion systems and novel materials with unique properties.