How are mass calculations done in the weightless environment of space?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on the methods for calculating mass in a weightless environment, specifically in outer space. Participants explore theoretical and practical approaches to mass determination, including the use of oscillation and moment of inertia.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the procedure for determining mass in a zero-gravity environment.
  • Another participant suggests that it may only be possible to calculate moment of inertia rather than actual mass, proposing the use of a spring with a known spring constant and simple harmonic motion as a method.
  • A similar viewpoint is reiterated, emphasizing the calculation of mass from moment of inertia for objects of known geometry and endorsing the spring method as a viable option.
  • A participant references historical context, noting that oscillating mass on a spring was used to measure astronauts' mass on Skylab.
  • One participant provides a link to additional information about mass measurements aboard Skylab.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether actual mass can be determined in a weightless environment, with some suggesting that only moment of inertia can be calculated. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best method for mass calculation.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully explored the assumptions behind their proposed methods, and there may be limitations related to the definitions of mass and moment of inertia in a zero-gravity context.

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Mass calculations in space

If an astronaut wanted to determine the mass of an object in outer space (0g), what is the procedure?
 
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Could you though? I would think you would only be able to calculate the moment of inertia, not the actual mass.

You could attach it to a spring with a known spring constant and use simple harmonic motion.
 
Kazza_765 said:
Could you though? I would think you would only be able to calculate the moment of inertia, not the actual mass.
One could calculate the mass of a body of known geometry from it's moment of inertia.
Kazza_765 said:
You could attach it to a spring with a known spring constant and use simple harmonic motion.
However, I do think this would be the better option.
 
Oscillating the inertial mass on a spring was the principle used to measure the mass of astronauts on Skylab.

As I'm new here I can't post urls in my messages yet, but search for "Mass Measurements Aboard Space Station Skylab" with your favourite search engine and you should get a hit from the NASA website which describes the device used to measure the astronauts' mass.
 
Thanks... a few more posts and I'll have the power to give URLs.
 

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