Question

How do astronauts define “up” or “down” in space?

(a) There is no “up” or “down” in space

(b) The side facing the earth is “down” and the opposite side is ‘up”

(c) “up’ or “down” is decided by the control centre on earth

(d) The direction of the spacecraft’s power source is “up” and the opposite side is “down”

This question was posed to me in a national level competition.

The above asked question is from Gravitation in section Gravitation of Physics – Class 11

Answer 1

Correct choice is (a) There is no “up” or “down” in space

For explanation: There is no “up” or “down” in space due to the lack of normal reaction forces for their weights. Gravity defines the vertical direction. Thus for the astronauts, all directions are the same.