Dangers and Challenges of Space Travel

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Questions and Answers

What is the main purpose of special shielding in space shuttles?

To regulate temperature inside the spacecraft.

To enhance communication systems.

To reduce the impact of micrometeoroids. (correct)

To improve energy efficiency.

How many times the acceleration of gravity (1 g) can astronauts experience during launch?

Ten times 1 g.

Only 1 g.

Three times 1 g. (correct)

Up to 2 g.

Which degree is NOT specifically mentioned as a requirement for becoming an astronaut?

Engineering.

Social Science. (correct)

Biological Science.

Mathematics.

What physical changes do astronauts experience in space regarding their coordination?

Coordination improves over time. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary source of disorientation for astronauts upon arriving at the ISS?

Weightlessness and changing day-night cycles. Signup and view all the answers

Why do astronauts need training for higher g-force scenarios?

To prevent loss of consciousness. Signup and view all the answers

What issue might arise due to micrometeoroids impacting a space shuttle?

Puncturing holes leading to air leaks. Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the gases in astronauts' stomachs while in space?

They float freely without separation. Signup and view all the answers

What is one negative effect of weightlessness on the human body?

Decreased bone density Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following reasons would likely make someone not want to go to space?

Danger and risk involved Signup and view all the answers

How does lack of showers on the ISS classify in terms of astronaut experience?

Inconvenience Signup and view all the answers

What could exposure to cosmic radiation potentially cause?

Cancer Signup and view all the answers

What advantage can some astronauts experience in a weightless environment?

Increase in height Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary danger associated with high g-forces during launch?

Loss of consciousness Signup and view all the answers

How are micrometeoroids categorized in relation to astronaut safety?

Danger Signup and view all the answers

What is a reason astronauts may face isolation during space missions?

Lack of medical facilities Signup and view all the answers

What happens to astronauts' hearts while living in the International Space Station?

They struggle to pump blood as effectively due to the absence of gravity. Signup and view all the answers

What physical change do astronauts experience in their height while in space?

They become taller because their spine is not compressed. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant risk of long-term exposure to cosmic radiation in space?

Higher chances of developing cataracts. Signup and view all the answers

Why do astronauts need to exercise while in space?

To maintain muscle mass and bone density. Signup and view all the answers

What sanity-related challenge do astronauts face during long missions in space?

Isolation and monotony due to repetitive tasks. Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of astronauts living in microgravity concerning their physical health?

They are at increased risk for osteoporosis and bone fractures. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary method to reduce exposure to radiation for astronauts?

Limit the amount of time spent in space. Signup and view all the answers

How do astronauts typically cope with the lack of conventional showers in space?

They use a sponge or wet wipes for cleanliness. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Dangers of Space Travel

Spacecraft must be designed to withstand impacts from micrometeoroids which travel at high speeds.
A thin foil shielding helps vaporize micrometeoroids before impact, reducing damage risk.

Astronaut Requirements

Astronauts must have a degree in engineering, biological science, physical science, computer science, or mathematics with at least 3 years of experience.
Alternatively, 1000 hours of jet aircraft piloting experience is accepted.
Physical tests and height restrictions apply.

Launch and G-Forces

During launch, astronauts experience high gravitational forces, known as g-forces, which are three times the acceleration of Earth's gravity (9.8 m/s2).
Training is crucial to handle these g-forces to prevent blood from traveling away from the head and causing loss of consciousness.

Living in Space

Weightlessness and altered day-night cycles cause disorientation upon arriving at the ISS.
Astronauts experience "puffy face" due to fluid shifting to the upper body in the absence of gravity.
Muscle loss is a significant concern due to zero gravity, requiring astronauts to exercise extensively.
Astronauts experience a decrease in bone density, leading to potential bone fractures and osteoporosis upon returning to Earth.
In space, astronauts are taller due to spinal decompression from the lack of gravity.
The ISS bathroom presents unique sanitation challenges due to a lack of gravity.

Radiation Exposure

Earth's magnetosphere and atmosphere protect us from cosmic radiation, absent in space.
Exposure to radiation from the Sun poses risks, including cancer and cataracts leading to vision problems.
Minimizing time in space can reduce radiation exposure, but more research is needed for long-term missions.

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Description

Explore the various dangers and challenges associated with space travel, including the design of spacecraft and the requirements for astronauts. Learn about the physical effects of g-forces during launch and the unique living conditions in space, such as weightlessness and disorientation.