Parabolic flights are zero-gravity flights, where weightlessness is simulated via a pilot's aircraft maneuvers. The aircraft climbs steeply and then descends quickly, forming an arc shape. During the ascent, 1.8 times the Earth’s gravity is felt, and the sharp descent has the opposite effect. Those on the plane experience periods of microgravity as though they are floating. This lasts for approximately 20-30 seconds and is a similar sensation to that felt by astronauts in space.
This method allows for scientific research, astronaut training and even filming to be carried out, without the need to travel to space.
MIT Media Lab’s doctoral student, Kristina T. Johnson has embarked on a journey to measure autonomic changes in parabolic flyers. Parabolic flight planes are notorious for inducing high levels of nausea. By using Empatica’s technology and other bio signal measures, Kirsty and her team were able to gain an objective insight into novice and veteran flyers’ physiological well-being during flights.