i think the link you sent me suggested it was tested in a vacuum (eventually). cavendish probably just used just a glass box because that's all that was needed. in one video you sent, the guy explaining the original experiment was just behind plexiglass.
I guess I'll just have to keep digging for a better experiment.
the draft in the room surprised me. i would, too, not be satisfied unless i did the experiment myself to witness first-hand.
but dont throw the baby out with the bathwater.
i would say that is the best experiment.
but just not the best execution of how to keep the wind down.
"The actual balance is enclosed in a metal case with glass windows to protect the torsion balance from air currents while allowing the laser beam to bounce from the mirror."
video: http://www.leydenscience.org/physics/gravitation/detail.mpg
source: http://www.leydenscience.org/physics/gravitation/cavend.htm
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