Each centrifuge will hold six Insect Containers, typically one drawer will provide microgravity and the other drawer, a gravity environment. Specimens can be harvested at any point within the constraints of available crew time but because the centrifuge must be halted to perform sampling activities, 1g animals will be exposed to the microgravity environment. An experiment element is currently planned based on the same basic structure as the Insect Habitat for the study of small aquatic species. The facility would allow the study of fresh or salt water species in a container with a volume of from 35 to 55 ml. A 100 ml chevron shaped container may also be available.
Oxygenation is by gas exchange and fixation with gluteraldehyde or formaldehyde is planned.
Similar video and lighting capabilities will be available. These facilities are being planned and developed in close cooperation with the Science community to provide the best possible tools for research.