The IAF members have teamed with the National Research
Council to study the effects on the human body of transitioning from full 1G
gravity to the microgravity felt in orbit. The launch will also carry
additional instruments designed to study the impact microgravity has on various
chemical and physical properties of the surrounding environment, according to a
Wednesday press release from the company.
“The Italian Air Force has always placed great importance on
the understanding of space and aerospace," Lieutenant General Alberto
Rosso, Chief of Staff of the Italian Air Force, said in a prepared statement.
"Aerospace is the natural operational extension of our institutional duty.
Strength in this domain is an asset for the country and is critical to its protection
and safety, which is why the Air Force places great emphasis on further
deepening its knowledge. With this mission, the Italian Air Force aims to start
exploring potential implementations for this kind of vehicle - both civilian
and military - and to further opportunities for technological, scientific and
industrial growth.”
Unity 23, when it launches during its window between late
September and early October, will be the first Virgin Galactic flight since
company founder, Richard Branson and crew completed their history-making flight
in July.
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