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Free falling in outer space - Matt J. Carlson

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If you were to orbit the Earth, you’d experience the feeling of free fall, not unlike what your stomach feels before a big dive on a roller coaster. With a little help from Sir Isaac Newton, Matt J. Carlson explains the basic forces acting on an astronaut and why you probably shouldn't try this one at home.

Additional Resources for you to Explore

Dr. Carlson’s library of science videos includes his more detailed discussion of Free Fall. NASA also has a number of good web pages on satellites and their orbits including this one on types of orbits. There are many physics web sites as well that describe the motion of satellites.

Take a look at the following java applications where you can attempt to make a satellite orbit correctly:
-NTNUJAVA Virtual Physics Laboratory
-NASA Glenn Research Center

About Space Ed

Space Ed helps you untangle the mysteries of space with the universe’s best videos on everything from Einstein's theory of relativity to what it would take to live on Mars. Brush up on the science, philosophy and mystery of space, because the fabric of the universe is the same fabric that connects us all.

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Dr. Matt J. Carlson
  • Animator Josh Harris
  • Narrator Matt J. Carlson
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