Zero G Mass Measurement Device (ZGMMD)

The Zero G Mass Measurement Device (ZGMMD) will provide the ability to quantify the mass of objects up to 2,000 grams, including live animal specimens in a zero G environment, an innovative because there currently are no such devices available to perform mass measurement of smaller masses (<2000 grams) in space. At present there are no tools on board the International Space Station (ISS) to measure low mass objects, which is a capability that is extremely important for biological research. The ZGMMD would provide the capability to quantify the mass of an object, while limiting the acceleration applied to the object. The ZGMMD would be capable of being used in the Microgravity Sciences Glovebox (MSG) or could someday be integrated with payloads such as the Plant Habitat (PH). The ZGMMD innovation provides a fundamental capability (measuring mass of an object) that would increase the capabilities of NASA's fundamental space biology program. A significant amount of fundamental biology has occurred on the ground that has utilized mass measurements; therefore to compare zero G results with previously conducted ground experiments, mass measurement capabilities should be provided. Successful completion of Phase I and II efforts would provide these previously mentioned capabilities.