Space exploration has always captured the human imagination and brave men and women venture beyond Earth’s atmosphere to experience a world like no other.
Astronauts have the privilege of witnessing breathtaking phenomena and encountering puzzling experiences that are beyond human understanding. Here are 13 unbelievable things astronauts experience in space, offering a glimpse into the awe-inspiring wonders of the universe.
A different perspective from this world @Astro_Woodyhelmet mounted camera after handing over the solar array to Steve Bowen. The duo will continue on their way to the installation site. pic.twitter.com/rROYfbBVib
– International Space Station (@Space_Station)
June 15, 2023
1. Feeling of weightlessness: One of the most striking things about being in space is the feeling of weightlessness. Astronauts hover like they are in water and they have to be careful not to bump into objects. Everyday tasks like eating, sleeping, and even using the bathroom become fascinating challenges in microgravity.
2. They suffer from space adaptation syndrome: Space adaptation syndrome (SAS) is a collection of symptoms that astronauts experience when they first go to space. These symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and headache.
3. Lengthening the spine: Living in a zero-gravity environment has interesting effects on the human body. Without the downward force of gravity, the spine would stretch and decompress, causing astronauts to grow taller during their time in space. This increase in height is only temporary and astronauts will return to their original height after returning to Earth.
4. Space smells: Although space is often described as a sterile environment, astronauts have reported experiencing distinctive odors while on space missions. These odors are thought to arise from equipment, space suits and even the astronauts themselves. Some describe it as a “metallic” or “burning” smell, making it a unique sensory experience.
5. Special eating habits: Food and drinks in space must be specially prepared so as not to go away. Astronauts also have to eat and drink more frequently than on Earth because their bodies lose fluids more quickly in space.
What to prepare for a spacewalk?
Here is a behind the scenes photo with @Astro_Woodywho will make the first trip out @Space station on Friday, 9th: https://t.co/3FapJKkffV
– NASA (@NASA)
June 6, 2023
6. Changes in blood pressure: An astronaut’s blood pressure changes in space due to the lack of gravity. Their blood tends to pool in the lower extremities, which can cause circulation problems.
7. Fluid redistribution: In a microgravity environment, the fluids in the human body redistribute, causing changes in appearance. Without gravity, fluid would move toward the upper body, resulting in a “puffed-up” appearance and skinnier legs. This phenomenon may require some adjustment, as astronauts often find their facial features temporarily altered during space missions.
8. Special sleeping patterns: Astronauts sleep in sleeping bags mounted on the side of their spacecraft. They must also wear special eye shields to block light.
9. Gardening in space: Astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) have the unique opportunity to participate in space gardening. They grow crops like lettuce in microgravity, study the challenges of growing food in space, and explore the possibilities of sustainable space agriculture.
10. Time dilation: Relativity has a role in space travel, causing time dilation. Due to the high speeds and gravitational fields experienced during space missions, astronauts age slightly more slowly than their counterparts on Earth. Although this effect is very small, it is a fascinating aspect of space exploration.
11. Radiation exposure: Astronauts are exposed to radiation in space. This is because Earth’s atmosphere protects us from radiation, but there is no atmosphere in space. Exposure to radiation can cause health problems, such as cancer.
12. Strange hair growth: The lack of gravity can also affect the way astronauts’ hair grows. Their hair can grow in different directions and can also become more brittle.
13. Silence in deep space: Beyond Earth orbit, astronauts experience true silence. There was no background noise and they could only hear the sounds produced by the spacecraft or transmitted by radio.
In short, astronauts’ experiences in space are incredible and offer a unique perspective on our place in the universe. From weightlessness to witnessing the wonders of the universe, their journey offers a glimpse into the unknown. These 13 little-known facts demonstrate the remarkable and unbelievable things astronauts encounter during their time in space, fueling our curiosity and inspiring generations Future space explorer.
Categories: Optical Illusion
Source: pagasa.edu.vn