The Daily The Sunday Read: ‘The Bodily Indignities of the Space Life’
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Dec 10, 2023 Discover the intriguing challenges astronauts face as they adapt to the harsh realities of space travel. From physiological changes to the psychological impacts of isolation, the discussion dives deep into survival in microgravity. Learn about groundbreaking research, including twin studies on molecular changes and the quest for artificial gravity. The potential future of space tourism and how long-term habitation might influence human evolution and identity adds an exciting twist, painting a vivid picture of life beyond Earth.
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Swallowing in Space
- Scientists initially doubted humans could swallow in space's low gravity.
- Yuri Gagarin's 1961 orbit proved them wrong, demonstrating basic functions like eating and drinking worked.
Gagarin's Experience vs. SAS
- Yuri Gagarin, the first human in space, claimed to experience no ill effects in microgravity.
- However, many astronauts later reported space adaptation syndrome (SAS), similar to motion sickness.
Microgravity's Effects on the Body
- Microgravity disrupts blood pressure regulation, causing fluid shifts to the upper body.
- This leads to puffy faces, sinus congestion, and vision problems, sometimes permanently.