NSSDCA ID: 1983-116A-12
Mission Name: STS 9/Spacelab 1The experiment objective was to determine whether or not nutation (spiral motion of growing plants) takes place in the absence of a gravitational force. The test plants were dwarf sunflower seedlings (Helianthus annuus). The equipment consisted of a dark box, within which four test plants illuminated by infrared light could be located in the field of view of a video camera; rotor compartments; battery pack; video tape data recorder; control electronics; and a carry-on container of 28 plant modules, each containing one plant. Plants at various stages of growth were kept in a rotor compartment under a 1-g acceleration until it was their turn to be tested in front of the camera. Approximately 60% of the planned objectives were accomplished.
Questions and comments about this experiment can be directed to: Coordinated Request and User Support Office
Name | Role | Original Affiliation | |
---|---|---|---|
Prof. Anthony O. Dahl | Other Investigator | University of Pennsylvania | |
Mr. D. K. Chapman | Other Investigator | University of Pennsylvania | |
Dr. Allan H. Brown | Principal Investigator | University of Pennsylvania |