Towards Microgravity Experiments Using the Electrostatic Levitation Furnace (ELF) in the International Space Station (ISS)

Abstract

The electrostatic levitation furnace is under development for the International Space Station. Since metallic samples can be levitated under terrestrial conditions, the main target in microgravity are oxides, which are difficult to levitate in 1-G. Thermophysical properties such as density, surface tension, and viscosity of molten oxides at high temperature will be measured in the ISS. In this paper, some key techniques necessary for the ISS-ELF are introduced. Also, preparatory works and considerations necessary for ISS experiments are discussed.