VOMIT COMET Meaning and
Definition
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The term "vomit comet" is a slang expression used to refer to a special aircraft that is specifically designed to simulate the conditions of weightlessness. It is typically a modified Boeing 707 or similar aircraft that has been altered to achieve parabolic flight trajectories. These trajectories involve flying in a series of steep climbs and descents, creating brief periods of microgravity during the descent phase. This alternating gravity environment allows passengers aboard the aircraft to experience a fleeting sensation of weightlessness.
The term "vomit comet" is often employed due to the notorious effects of weightlessness on the human body. The sudden absence of gravity can induce a feeling of disorientation, dizziness, and sometimes nausea in individuals unaccustomed to this environment. The extreme sensations of floating and the constant changes in gravitational forces can disrupt the body's equilibrium, leading to these unpleasant side effects.
The underlying purpose of the "vomit comet" is to provide a controlled environment for training astronauts, conducting scientific experiments, and filming movie scenes involving weightlessness. These parabolic flights enable astronauts to practice essential tasks in a gravity-free environment, allowing them to prepare for the unique conditions experienced during spaceflight. Additionally, researchers can utilize this modified aircraft to conduct experiments that require short periods of zero gravity, facilitating the exploration of various scientific phenomena.
While the term "vomit comet" may seem light-hearted, it reflects the challenges individuals face when adapting to altered gravity conditions, emphasizing the need for proper training and preparation beforehand.
Etymology of VOMIT COMET
The term "vomit comet" is a colloquial expression used to refer to an aircraft used for parabolic flights, which creates an environment of microgravity for shorter durations. The etymology of the phrase combines two components:
1. Vomit: The word "vomit" originates from the Latin word "vomitus", which means "to vomit". It entered the English language in the late 14th century and has had the same meaning throughout its history. In the context of the term "vomit comet", it refers to the tendency of individuals to experience motion sickness and potential vomiting during the flight due to the constantly changing gravitational forces.
2. Comet: The word "comet" has a different origin from "vomit". It comes from the Latin word "comēta", which originates from the Greek word "kometes", meaning "long-haired".
