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This is a part of the Microgravity Combustion Laboratory, and as such, the main focus of the research performed here comprises the characterization of the fire properties of materials used in space- based facilities. The probability of the occurence of an accidental fire during long space missions is high, considering the flammable nature of the composite and polymeric materials from which many of the components of space equipment are made, and considering the complexity of the electrical wiring and electronic equipment on board. Moreover, low velocity air currents exist within space vessels, and these destroy the hypothesis that the controlling mechanisms of combustion phenomena in microgravity are thermal and mass diffusion.
 Last Updated: March 23, 1999 |