Geoflow experiment

The complete Geoflow laboratory experiment that was installed on the International Space Station. Geoflow is used to verify and improve computer models of fluid convection.

Six European teams led by the University of Cottbus in Germany recreated aspects of mantle flow in the Geoflow laboratory.

Understanding how Earth’s mantle flows is a major interest for geophysics because it could help to explain earthquakes or volcanic eruptions. The results could also benefit industry by improving spherical gyroscopes, bearings and centrifugal pumps, for example.