JAN 22, 2018 7:43 PM PST

Can You Ride a Vacuum Cleaner Like a Jetpack in Space?

WRITTEN BY: Anthony Bouchard


Not very many people get the opportunity to visit the International Space Station, so it's up to the astronauts and cosmonauts that work there to conduct experiments for us.

One of the longstanding questions that Earthlings have had is whether it's possible to fly upon the push and pull of a vacuum cleaner in space. Fortunately, Russian cosmonaut Anton Shkaplerov‏ has the scoop.

In this video, Shkaplerov demonstrates forward propulsion via vacuum cleaner down one of the International Space Station's tight hallways.

One thing to note is that the International Space Station contains pressurized air so that its inhabitants can breathe. That, coupled with microgravity, makes jet-packing atop a vacuum cleaner possible.

Given the circumstances, this little stunt probably wouldn't work outside of the International Space Station because there isn't any air for the vacuum cleaner to push and pull.

Isn't science awesome?

About the Author
Other
Fascinated by scientific discoveries and media, Anthony found his way here at LabRoots, where he would be able to dabble in the two. Anthony is a technology junkie that has vast experience in computer systems and automobile mechanics, as opposite as those sound.
You May Also Like
Loading Comments...