Magnetic Microstructures

  • Released Thursday, May 8th, 2014
  • Updated Wednesday, May 3rd, 2023 at 1:50PM
  • ID: 11535

Everyone likes playing with magnets, even astronauts. Since 2002, NASA has been experimenting with tiny magnetic particles suspended in liquid aboard the International Space Station. The particles exhibit no special properties when moving through the liquid at random. But under the influence of a magnet, the particles are pulled into order, forming aggregate structures that force the liquid itself to become rigid. The process is similar to how chilling water coerces individual molecules to bond and produce ice crystals. The research has multiple applications for future technologies being developed here on Earth, including the design of new robotics systems used in aircraft and automobiles. Watch the video to learn more.

How astronauts are using magnets to build the materials of tomorrow.

How astronauts are using magnets to build the materials of tomorrow.

See how magnetic particles assemble into microscopic structures in this video.

The black lines above are extremely thin chains of magnetic particles.

The black lines above are extremely thin chains of magnetic particles.

Magnetic particles (black) are shaped into different size structures by exposure to a constant (left) or intermittent (right) magnetic field.

Magnetic particles (black) are shaped into different size structures by exposure to a constant (left) or intermittent (right) magnetic field.

Astronaut Karen Nyberg explores the properties of magnetic particles aboard the space station.

Astronaut Karen Nyberg explores the properties of magnetic particles aboard the space station.

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Credits

Please give credit for this item to:
Science@NASA and NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center
Images courtesy of NASA