Experience microgravity by understanding Newton’s 2nd and 3rd laws of motion

We often mistake the phenomena of gravity and microgravity. Gravity is a force that impacts motion, keeps the moon in orbit around the Earth, and enables us to stay on the ground. Microgravity occurs when objects are in free fall. Both the International Space Station and the astronauts on it are free-falling around the Earth causing the astronauts to float. This lesson plan introduces the concept of microgravity to students through hands-on experiments culminating in a virtual reality experience. First, they explore the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration by pushing objects of different masses to understand Newton’s second law of motion. Building on their understanding, they perform activities to determine the difference between measuring mass and weight. Then, they construct a microgravity drop tower and use a camera to observe how materials behave in microgravity. Finally, in virtual reality, students experience microgravity and push objects while floating to understand Newton’s third law of motion.

Learning objectives

• Students will be able to explain Newton’s 2nd Law of Motion and the relationship among force, mass, and acceleration.
• Students will be able to explain the difference between normal gravity on Earth and the microgravity environment on  the space station.
• Students will be able to explain Newton’s 3rd Law of Motion.