Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #32207: Fire in Space: Understanding Ignition and Extinction of Solid Fuels on the ISS

Fire behaves very differently in space than it does on Earth. Without gravity, flames become spherical and their behavior is dominated by diffusion rather than convection. The Solid Fuel Ignition and Extinction – Growth and Extinction Limit (SoFIE-GEL) experiment aboard the ISS sought to explore these unique dynamics in solid fuel combustion.

Led by Dr. James T'ien of Case Western Reserve University and developed by NASA Glenn Research Center, this research spanned Expeditions 66 through 71. The objective was to determine the limits at which solid materials ignite and the precise conditions under which the flames go out.

In space, combustion is more diffusion-controlled, offering a simplified view that allows for deeper insight into flame physics. Using controlled ignition systems and various solid fuel samples, researchers tested how different materials reacted under various environmental conditions.

Understanding these parameters is critical for spacecraft safety. It helps engineers design better fire suppression systems and choose safer materials for use in spacecraft, habitats, and even space suits.

The SoFIE-GEL experiment also contributes to Earth-based fire safety, particularly in enclosed or low-oxygen environments like submarines, mining operations, and aircraft.

From preventing fires on space missions to improving our understanding of fire behavior in challenging conditions on Earth, SoFIE-GEL represents a major step forward in safety and science.

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