Space Beer
A group of Brisbane researchers are leading a new space race, as they help develop a special beer for intergalactic travellers.
Researchers at Queensland University of Technology’s microgravity “drop tower” are testing the first Australian space beer, which will cater to the soon-to-launch space tourism industry.
QUT’s research facility director, Ted Steinberg, said the microgravity tower simulated the low-gravity level present in space, allowing the companies behind the beer to determine how it would be affected by space travel.
“The tower is about 30 metres high and it gives us about two seconds of zero gravity,” Professor Steinberg said.
“Essentially they’re looking at the correct carbonation level so it can be consumed in zero gravity. They’re really trying to perfect the carbonation level and behaviour.
“If it was too carbonated it would not sit well, if it was not carbonated enough you wouldn’t get the flavour.”
Professor Steinberg said researchers achieved two seconds of zero gravity by loading the beer into a 400 kilogram metal capsule and pulling it to the top of the microgravity tower, before letting it freefall.
Professor Steinberg said the project was one of many projects underway at the research centre, with the microgravity tower contributing to the invention of new materials produced without the effects of gravity.