NASA Reduced Gravity Student Flight Opportunities Program (RGSFOP)

Our Study: Change in myocytic and osteoblastic cellular shapes due to response of nuclear movement in microgravity conditions

Current Agenda:

• Performing experiments testing different amounts of time in the centrifuge and different magnitudes of "gravity."
• Developing glovebox and incubation equipment required for testing on the KC-135A.

Overview

The NASA RGSFOP provides students with the chance to design and perform a study on the effects of microgravity (nearly zero-g) on a subject of their own choosing. Flights aboard the KC-135A (the famous NASA "Vomit Comet") will simulate approximately thirty seconds of nearly zero-gravity conditions, allowing for unique tests and insights on the effects of microgravity.

Thie purpose of this website is to provide information about our research and activities in this program, as well as inform the public of the valuable educational opportunities and services provided by NASA.

Introduction

Our team consists of four Juniors from Duke University: John Fang, Isaac Chan, Dan Choi, and Gary Sing. We are advised by Dr. George Truskey of the Biomedical Engineering Department.

Future updates to this site will reflect our progress in both the experimental and outreach portions of our project.

Experimental

We have developed our methods for fixing cells while spinning in a centrifuge and are currently measuring the distance from the slide to the nucleus with a confocal microscope. Our primary piece of equipment is an open air centrifuge. Using fluorescent dye, we are able to obtain very clear images of our cell samples.

Outreach

Lakewood Elementary: We presented an activity emphasizing scientific curiosity and emphasized the necessity of NASA in exploring science.

E.K. Powe: We presented our experimental instruments (centrifuge) and displayed the RGSFOP video for viewing during a "Science Night" for K-6 students.