microgravity

[ mahy-kroh-grav-i-tee ]

noun

1. a condition, especially in space orbit, where the force of gravity is so weak that weightlessness results.

microgravity

/ ˈmaɪkrəʊˌɡrævɪtɪ /

noun

1. the very low apparent gravity experienced in a spacecraft in earth orbit

microgravity

/ mī′krō-grăv′ĭ-tē /

1. A condition in which an object in the gravitational field of some other body (such as the Earth) is accelerated freely as a result of the gravitational force. Free-falling objects, such as a skydiver or a satellite orbiting the Earth, are in a condition of microgravity, while objects held up by forces resisting gravity (as in the case of objects resting on the Earth's surface) or held up by aerodynamic forces (as in the case of birds or aircraft) are not. Since the normal experience of weight on Earth is the result of forces that resist gravity, objects in microgravity appear weightless. Not all effects of gravity are eliminated in such conditions; tidal forces , for example, still affect bodies in microgravity, especially large bodies such as the Earth and the Moon.

Word History and Origins

Origin of microgravity¹

First recorded in 1980–85; micro- + gravity

Example Sentences

They quickly found it difficult to walk around normally in microgravity, and they were also very careful to avoid any dangers.

From MIT Technology Review

If you drifted away from the show during earlier seasons, like something accidentally dropped in microgravity, this new season makes it worth finding a way to come back.

From Ars Technica

There’s interest in seeing how different chemicals might react in this type of microgravity.

From MIT Technology Review

Sutton believes precision medicine could play a huge role in tailoring those drugs to protect astronauts against the effects of microgravity and radiation.

From MIT Technology Review

The scientists wanted to know if they worked in microgravity too.

From MIT Technology Review