NASA's 20-G Centrifuge Machine

Roland Piquepaille writes "Scientists from NASA and two U.S. universities are using a 20-G centrifuge machine that can simulate up to 20 times the terrestrial gravity to evaluate the effects of hypergravity on humans. This 58-foot diameter centrifuge has three cabins, one for humans -- limited to 12.5 G -- and two for objects and flying hardware. The goal of these experiments is to reduce the adverse effects that space travel can have on astronauts' physical heath. But by studying the health benefits of exercise on astronauts, the researchers also hope to help the rapidly growing senior population who, like astronauts, doesn't exercise much. Read more for additional details and pictures about this NASA's machine."

Slashdot has really gone downhill

[SmallFurryCreature]

a 20-G centrifuge machine that can simulate up to 20 times the terrestrial gravity

Geez, no shit sherlock. I wonder how much G earth gravity is?

I can understand if this bit of info has to be included in say a BBC report but this is supposed to be a place filled with geeks and nerds who could work out for themselves that 20G is 20 times the G force of earths gravity. Even the americans should be able to handle the math involved. The canadians might need help. The dutch? It is sunday morning. To stoned to care. Not that it being sunday morning has anything to do with that.

Re:Slashdot has really gone downhill

[MadUndergrad]

If you really want to complain, point out that 'G' is the universal gravitational constant, while 'g' (note: lowercase) is the acceleration of gravity at Earth's surface. Gotta remember to keep those units straight.