Dr. Jason Cassibry provides an overview of his team’s lab at UAH work with high voltage dielectrophoresis, which is being studied for in-space applications like artificial gravity for crewed missions. His team is already capable of generating 1/3 of Earth’s gravity on objects like wood, glass, plastic, and marble, and hopes to approach 1g as they continue to refine their equipment & methodology.

The Charger Advanced Power Propulsion Laboratory (CAPP Lab) at the University of Alabama in Huntsville details research into using dielectrophoresis to create artificial gravity for space travel. The lab, utilizing high-voltage equipment (up to 400 kV) and a 60,000 Joule pulse power machine, is exploring this century-old concept to counteract the debilitating effects of microgravity on astronauts during long-duration space missions. While acknowledging the limitations of current propulsion technology for interstellar travel, the research emphasizes the unique capabilities of humans in space exploration, advocating for a collaborative human-AI approach.

The presentation includes a review of relevant physics, experimental setups, and preliminary results demonstrating the generation of a measurable artificial gravity using dielectrophoresis. Future research will focus on optimizing the system for different environments (e.g., Mars) and mitigating potential health risks associated with high-voltage exposure. The lab’s overarching goal is to train students for future contributions to advanced propulsion and space exploration.

Units, Dimensions, and the Speed of…Everything

The presentation begins with a review of fundamental units and dimensions, from the familiar meter and second to the more exotic parsec and warp speed (yes, really!). This sets the stage for a discussion of the immense distances involved in space travel and the limitations of current propulsion technologies. We’re talking about journeys that take years, even centuries, with current chemical rockets.

The CAPP Lab: Where Innovation Takes Flight (Literally)

Located eight miles off campus, the CAPP Lab boasts impressive equipment, including refurbished high-voltage power supplies (up to ±100 kV), a pendulum for dielectrophoresis experiments, and a custom-built 60,000 Joule pulse power machine nicknamed “Sparky,” capable of generating 900,000 amps in a 3-microsecond pulse! Images of the lab’s impressive setup are shown, showcasing the dedication and ingenuity of the students involved. (Note: Student identities are protected for privacy reasons.)

Why Humans Still Matter in the Age of AI

The presentation emphasizes the irreplaceable role of human ingenuity and adaptability in space exploration. While AI and robots are invaluable tools for data processing and execution, human brains offer unparalleled speed, efficiency, creativity, and problem-solving skills. The speaker advocates for a collaborative approach, leveraging the strengths of both humans and AI to achieve breakthroughs impossible with either alone. The 6-20 minute communication lag to Mars alone highlights the need for human presence on long-duration missions.

Conquering Microgravity: The Dielectrophoresis Approach

The core of the research focuses on mitigating the debilitating effects of microgravity on astronauts during long-duration spaceflight. Bone loss, muscle weakening, and cardiovascular deconditioning are significant concerns. The CAPP Lab is exploring dielectrophoresis – a century-old concept – as a potential countermeasure. This technique uses electric field gradients to exert a force on objects, potentially creating a simulated gravitational pull.

From Ping Pong Balls to Artificial Gravity

The journey from initial experiments using a ping pong table and a high-voltage setup to the sophisticated apparatus currently in use is fascinating. The team overcame challenges like arcing and high-voltage breakdown, developing innovative solutions like using inexpensive Sculpey clay as an insulator. Early experiments achieved up to 1/3 of Earth’s gravity using approximately 50,000V, demonstrating the potential of this approach.

The Science Behind the Force

The presentation delves into the physics of dielectrophoresis, explaining the force equation and the role of factors like object size, permittivity, and electric field strength. The team also discusses the frequency dependence of the effect, highlighting the need for careful consideration of safety limits and potential health risks associated with high-voltage exposure. An interesting undocumented finding: metals, surprisingly, don’t respond to standard dielectrophoresis, but a half-rectified AC field creates an attractive force.

Looking to the Future of Space Exploration

The research is still in its early stages, but the potential is immense. Dielectrophoresis, combined with other technologies, could revolutionize space travel, enabling longer missions to destinations previously considered unreachable. The CAPP Lab’s work is not just about artificial gravity; it’s about training the next generation of scientists and engineers to tackle the grand challenges of space exploration. This research has applications beyond artificial gravity, including debris remediation and material separation/recycling. The future of space travel is bright, and the CAPP Lab is leading the charge.