I recently researched real-life astronomy for my sci-fi novels. Here are a few quick facts about the experience and knowledge that astronomers have brought home to Earth.
Rather watch a video?
Check out the YouTube version of this blog post.
Drinking Sweat (The Space Dilema)
Ensuring that astronauts stay hydrated in space can be challenging. Water is heavy, so it’s impractical to carry it from Earth.
The European Space Agency solves this problem through reclaimed water. Roughly 80% of the water on the International Space Station is recycled …from the walls. As the astronauts sweat and exhale, their bodies’ water condenses on the walls.
From there, the water reclamation system collects and filters it, allowing astronauts to drink it and start the cycle anew.
This is a great scientific solution for a basic human need. But, it means no showers for the months that these explorers are off planet.
Reportedly, fresh fruit and showers are the most-missed Earthly convenience.
Yeah. That sounds right.
How did we Learn so much about Gravity?
As astronomers continue to study space and other planets, it’s important to know what effects gravity can have on people …and plants–since it’s more efficient to grow food than to transport it.
But experiments in space and on other planets are costly and time consuming. So how do we learn about the effects of gravities that differ from Earth’s?
Scientists have devised short-term and long-term microgravity simulators. Drop towers, parabolic flights, and suborbital flights can simulate microgravity for anywhere from 5 seconds to 4 minutes. And for understanding of gravity on a deeper biological or cellular level, long-term microgravity simulators can run for days.
Just another way we learn about other planets without leaving home.
Preventing Extraplanetary Contamination
Ever hear of NASA’s Office of Planetary Protection? If not, they may not be what you’re guessing.
This body’s mission is to promote the responsible exploration of the solar system. Specifically, they assist in:
Construction of sterile (or low biological burden) spacecraft
Development of flight plans that protect planetary bodies of interest, and
Protection of Earth from returned extraterrestrial samples
It’s a lot to be responsible for, but it’s nice to know that someone’s looking out for our safety and the health of the solar system.
Until next time, stay curious.
Comments