Space Travel and Its Effects on Humans

Space Travel and Its Effects on Humans

Leaving Earthhttp://spaceplace.nasa.gov/how-orbits-work/en/http://galileoandeinstein.physics.virginia.edu/more_stuff/flashlets/slingshot6.swfEFFECT:The Space Shuttle has to fight the effects of gravity pulling and has to have enough power to get into orbit without going too far out in spaceACCOMODATIONS:The rockets give the space shuttle the right amount of boost. The speed will put the space craft in orbit

Effects of Microgravity on the BodyEFFECT:Blood & fluid building up in parts of the body. Muscles & bones weaken due to underuse. Spine lengthens-leads to back pain.ACCOMODATIONS:Taking medications and exercising as often as possible. Most of the effects reverse themselves upon returning to Earth.

Pressure, Temperature, & Atmosphere ChangesEFFECTS:No atmospheric pressure (lungs explode, body fluids boil), no oxygen, and extreme temperaturesACCOMODATIONS:Spacesuits are pressurized to keep body fluids liquid, contain tanks of oxygen for breathing, shield the astronaut from extreme temperatures, and shield them from flying debris

Space FoodEFFECTS:Foods will float away-crumbs are a problem Foods will spoil (no fridge) ACCOMMODATIONS:Special packages to prevent it from flying away Prepared and stored properly to avoid spoilage

Waste ManagementEFFECTS:Without gravity, waste doesnt fall from the body Build-up of wastes, wastes floating away Shower?ACCOMMODATIONS:Toilets that flush with air, not water, to pull waste away Recycle waste water, seal solid wastes in bags Sponge bath or enclosed shower with a vacuum

Living & Working in SpaceEFFECTS:Motion sickness, stuffy head, claustrophobia, illness How do you sleep in a bed?ACCOMMODATIONS:Taking medications to treat symptoms in some cases Sleep in sleeping bags strapped to wall, ear plugs and sleep masks

SpacecraftEFFECTS:Having enough supplies (food, water, etc) Being able to live and work in small space Keeping supplies clean (germs)ACCOMMODATIONS:Bringing food, water, & extra supplies (reducing waste and recycling) Acclimating yourself with work and surroundings Disinfecting supplies