Kentucky scientists and engineers are collaborating on a project involving research aboard the International Space Station.
A NASA grant is making possible the joint project with scientists and engineers from the University of Kentucky, the University of Louisville and Western Kentucky University. The research involves experiments on colloids, mixtures of microscopic particles suspended throughout a substance. U of L mechanical engineering assistant professor Stuart Williams says the space station setting will help scientists explore how particles interact in zero gravity. Results may include advances in solar energy, advanced manufacturing and other fields.
Williams is the principal scientific investigator. UK's Suzanne Smith is the managing principal investigator. Also involved are U of L's Gerold Willing, Western's Hemali Rathnayake, UK's Janet Lumpp and NASA partner Ronald Sicker.