Evaluating regolith stratification in an asteroid-like environment via ISS and suborbital experiments

Through the Strata family of experiments, we are taking initial steps to explore regolith size distributions in microgravity environments. These results are especially relevant in light of the images returned from Bennu and Ryugu, which show surfaces dominated by cm- and larger-sized particles. We discuss the particle motion and redistribution observed in experiments performed on the ISS and a suborbital flight, and how those motions are governed by gravitational acceleration and the ambient vibrational environments. This data can be used for interpretation of small body surfaces, and for models to extrapolate surface features to depth.