Fluid Science Laboratory for Columbus

The Fluid Science Laboratory (FSL) is being developed by ESA to study fluid physics under microgravity aboard the Agency's Columbus Laboratory attached to the International Space Station. The facility will focus on research involving fluid dynamics; flows and instabilities induced by surface-tension gradients and thermal radiation forces; double diffusive instabilities; interfacial tension and absorption; mechanisms of boiling; critical-point phenomena; crystal growth; directional solidification; etc. Researchers will be able to select from a variety of lighting sources (white light, monochromatic) to view their test subjects. A series of interferometric techniques such as Electronic Speckle Pattern interferometry, Wollaston/Schlieren interferometry, and holographic interferometry are also available. Imaging techniques range from visual to infrared CCD cameras. [Image Date: 1997] [97.07.007-002]