High Winds & Flexibility - Can the Drop Tower move?

Yes, it can - and it has to in order not to be damaged by strong winds. For the drop tube, which is located inside of the drop tower, movements or vibrations generated by strong winds could be disastrous for the flying / falling experiment capsule. The solution? Quite simple! The tower acts like a wind shield around the tube, protecting it from the influences of weather without ever touching it.

Fun side effect: It can get really shaky up there!

ZARM - CENTER OF APPLIED SPACE TECHNOLOGY AND MICROGRAVITY