For release: 04-06-04, w/e 04-02-04
Science Ops status report #: 04-102

International Space Station Expedition 8 Science Operations status report for the week ending April 2, 2004

International Space Station Science Officer Mike Foale began the new Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-3 experiment. For this fluid physics experiment, Foale will use magnets to mix samples of colloids — a system of fine particles suspended in a fluid such as paint, milk or ink. He will photograph the samples as they begin to separate over the next few weeks. The experiments could lead to improved information for use of fluids for food extractions, pharmaceuticals and rocket propellants.

NASA ISS Science Officer Mike Foale began the new Binary Colloidal Alloy Test-3 or BCAT-3 experiment for Glenn Research Center ’s microgravity research program.  BCAT-3 involves Foale using magnets to mix samples of colloids — a system of fine particles suspended in a fluid such as paint, milk or ink. Then, using a digital camera with a MagLite, Foale will photograph the samples as they begin to separate over the next few weeks.

Possible future applications of the colloidal alloy experiments are photonic crystals for telecommunications and computer applications and extremely low threshold lasers, as well as improved use of supercritical fluids for food extractions, pharmaceuticals, dry cleaning, and rocket propellants.

NASA’s payload operations team at the Marshall Center coordinates science activities on Space Station.

For supporting materials for this news release — such as photographs, fact sheets, video and audio files and more — please visit the NASA Marshall Center Newsroom Web site at:

http:// www.msfc.nasa.gov/news/

For more information:
Status report
Expedition 8 experiment fact sheets
Science Operations News