The Problems of Space Travel on the Body

Mr. Jo Marchant, in his article, "How To Survive The Long Haul In Space," reveals that some medical records of astronauts who served on Mir, a Russian space station, were released and they enlighten scientists and the public on the problems of space travel on the body. Astronaut health problems that were encountered and that had to be medically treated were numerous, and many of them were serious enough to require the rehabilitation of six astronauts from Europe. What does this information tell us about the cons of space exploration? It should say much even to a layperson.

Problems of space travel on the body include, but aren't limited to: deconditioning of the cardiovascular system, strange changes in the immune system, blood disorders, withered bones, withered muscles, psychological disturbances leading to behavioral problems and conditions resulting from exposure to radiation. "Chronic Health Hazards in Space Exploration," an article by Percival McCormack informs the public that even very short term space exploration missions take a grueling toll on the body. He raises important questions on this topic. If the problems of space travel on the body occur even on short term missions, how will man ever achieve a lunar base, hope to colonize Mars or establish space stations?

The absence of gravity in space affects the muscles and bones in a very negative way causing them to wither and causing astronauts the need to go through rehabilitation to renew strength in their muscles and bones. Among other cons of space exploration is astronauts' much higher risk of developing cancer due to their exposure to the high levels of radiation that exist in the heavens. There are also the mysterious changes that can take place in their immunity and cardiovascular system, and the disorders of the blood that a trip in space can cause them to develop.

Is radiation protection in space travel possible? Will the problems of space travel on the body ever be eliminated? What do astronaut health problems tells us? It isn't logical to believe that the cons of space exploration such as astronaut health problems will ever be eliminated. Earth is full of diseases that cause the death of its inhabitants despite the astounding technological advances that have been made in the medical field. If these advances are not the answers to health problems and diseases of an earthly nature, how can they even begin to solve the problems of space travel on the body?

When man doesn't eat the wholesome foods needed for health, doesn't drink fresh water, and doesn't get exercise, he falls sick and usually faces a premature death. This is because of the needs that God built into the body; when they aren't met, the body suffers and often cannot continue to survive. Should man begin to ask himself if one of his needs is to keep himself on planet Earth where he was placed and stay out of the heavens (space)?

The heaven, even the heavens, are the Lord's; but the earth hath he given to the children of men (mankind) (King James Bible, Psalm 115:16).