Abstract
In-situ observation of some transparent model alloys are very important in understanding the solidification mechanisms during cooling. This article introduces the apparatus and experimental procedures of direct observation of the monotectic model alloy using the drop capsule at Japan Microgravity Center (JAMIC) in Hokkaido. Microgravity conditions of 10-4g in 10 seconds are obtained in this capsule. The succinonitrile-ethanol model alloy is used and cooled at the top, center or bottom of the glass cell. A video camera records the behavior of the solidification and separation of the liquid droplets before and during the drop. The special attention given for performing the experiments in the drop capsule are also described.
