Fluids on the Space Station

Fun with surface tension in space! Surface tension describes a property of liquids in which molecules of one substance are more attracted to each other than molecules of another substance, causing them to “stick together”. Using microgravity to display the unique properties of liquids in space can reveal fundamental knowledge that can change our lives back on Earth. Microgravity experiments with fluids can give scientists new ways to study disease, understand catastrophic mudflows on Earth, and find ways to improve consumer products. They can also offer an opportunity for some fun for Space Station astronauts.