Dropcoal, short for drop coalescence, is a research project that studies how droplets form in space and on Earth. The results will grant insights into raindrop and cloud formation, fuel combustion and interactions between materials, all with broad implications for industry and academy. They also play a crucial role in administering medicine to astronauts during lengthy and far-reaching space missions.

The project encompasses experiments running during parabolic flights and in laboratories. The aim is to study droplet formation and coalescence in the low gravity environment of the International Space Station as part of a future ESA mission.

When drops collide

On Earth, gravity complicates drop formation. When a liquid falls or drips, gravity pulls it downward and affects the way the drop forms. Instead of a simple, perfectly spherical shape, gravity causes the drop to elongate or flatten out as it falls.

The New Horizons spacecraft that studied Pluto and Kuiper belt object Arrokoth continues its pioneering exploration of the Kuiper belt. However, that might soon end if NASA doesn't change course. The New Horizons science team has been told by NASA that the mission as they know it is slated to end September 30, 2024.

In response, many in the planetary science community have communicated extreme disapproval of that action to the agency. In addition, the National Space Society launched a petition drive to save the mission and its mission scientists. It's asking people to sign and show public support to the decision-makers at NASA. The deadline is the end of August.

Interested members of the public can also write to their Congressmembers or Senators directly about the issue. Those representatives can contact NASA administrator Bill Nelson to save the mission and its science team.