Day 6: Flight day 2

We were so excited that the wait for takeoff seemed endless. Finally, we sprung from the runway, soon bursting through a layer of clouds into the bright sun. As soon as we were able, we rushed to get set up and get into position for our control tests during level flight, which we managed to finish with only two minutes to spare before the first parabola.

For the first half of the flight, Meghan was the test subject, and Farron was the experimenter. The first parabola, free from the seats of the plane, was an incredible sensation. Blinded by the test helmet and held down with straps, Meghan felt as if her back was tied to the ceiling and she was falling face-first toward the floor. Farron, held only by a strap around his waist, nearly floated away before managing to rein himself in by grabbing a strap.

The first ten parabolas passed quickly and successfully. Farron and Meghan then switched roles, with Farron donning the helmet. We found the sensations to be quite different in the sitting position compared to laying down, particularly the 2G phase, which was much less comfortable while sitting, as it almost felt like one’s brain was being squeezed out the bottom of one’s skull.

Ten more parabolas passed in what seemed like the blink of an eye. Overall, we managed to collect twice the data than the previous day’s flight, by incorporating a second set of trials during the 2G pull-up phases. We can also proudly say that none of our four team members were sick.

With all of the experimental data collected, we were free to truly enjoy the wonderful sensation of weightlessness. We twirled, spun, and floated in the free float area; it was like nothing else. We also had the opportunity to watch the parabola from the pilot’s point of view, from the cockpit, where the extreme angles of climb and descent could be truly appreciated.

Although we were lucky enough to each experience thirty-six mind-blowing parabolas, we were definitely left hungry for more – hopefully we can find a way to be weightless again! This was an absolutely unforgettable experience; not only because of the parabolic flights, but also because of the amazing and dynamic group of people we had the chance to meet from all over the world.

Team 1008 - Memsiacs

We had to fix our experiment because of the problems we had yesterday. It turned out that there wasn’t anything wrong with the power connector; the problem was with one of the communication wires. It was almost cut through. We repaired the wire and the “L(a)unch Box” was working again.

Today we logged data from our experiment from the first parabola. In total we logged data for at least 25 parabolas. One of the sensor outputs failed today, but that was not critical. We have several sensors, so we didn’t have to do much to fix the problem.

Oh, My...!! This was a great experience! This is an experience of a lifetime. The feeling of being weightless is almost indescribable if you haven't experienced it.

Team 1039 – ASERO-G

The day started very early, especially for those who took part in the first flight yesterday since it was quite late when they left the Jolly Froggy. A quick breakfast in the van during the journey to Novespace and at 8 o'clock we were all ready for the medicine and looking forward to take-off. Although only two of us were flying today, the other two members of the team were also willing to have one of those magic pills.

After what we felt like a thousand years, the first parabola came at last. Everybody was unable to stop smiling. People were concentrating on their experiments, but at the same time, trying to enjoy every single second in microgravity as much as possible.

Our experiment worked fine today. We were able to solve the problems we had during the previous flight, so today we could get about 25 useful parabolas. We just missed a few because of some mistake with the controls and one or two to experience the free-floating area. It was a very satisfactory flight in all senses. But after the thirtieth parabola we couldn't avoid feeling a bit sad. We knew it was our last parabola, and we all wanted to float at least once more.

After we landed, there were mixed feelings. We were happy after the incredible experience we had just had, proud for having carried out the experiment, but also sad for leaving all the people we had met here. Of course we are all looking forward to going back home and having some hard earned rest.

We all agree that this experience is the most exciting thing we've ever done, and the smile won't disappear from our faces in a long time. Than you very mach to all the people from ESA and Novespace, for their support in the difficult moments and for having made this dream come true.