Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I am a 6th grader and I need the following question answered for this Monday, November 1st... PLEASE HELP!!!

The project that I have to do is to pick out a career and figure out a new invention to help that career. I chose astronauts and the idea I have chosen is a trampoline in space to help you keep your muscles active. I call it the astro trampoline. My question to you is whether or not this invention has already been created and if there is any way I can make it better? Can you think of any other advantages to a trampoline in space besides having astronauts exercise?

Hi Danamarie,

Your project idea is completely unique and original. I have never heard of a trampoline in space, and I just tried to do a Google search and did not find any references.

Trampolines normally require gravity so person using the trampoline will be able to bounce up and then fall back down onto the trampoline. So your challenge will be to design a trampoline that will work with no gravity. Can you think of a way to do this?

Also, since this is a science project, don't forget to include the science behind a trampoline. Here are a couple of websites to get you started:

http://ezinearticles.com/?How-Trampolin ... id=5068808

http://www.chaostoy.com/cd/html/the1_e.htm

Are you going to do any experiments for your project? Let us know if you have any more questions.

Donna Hardy