Space Exploration Flashcards

Flashcards about Space Exploration

Bone Loss in Space

Astronauts suffer from bone loss in space because their bones are not experiencing the same resistance from Earth's gravity, requiring careful exercise to mitigate this effect.

Bone Density Loss

Loss of bone density occurs when the rate at which bone is absorbed into the body is greater than the rate at which bone is being produced, resulting in weaker bones.

Muscle Shrinkage in Space

Muscles in the body shrink in space, leading to overall body weakness upon the astronaut's return to Earth.

Immune System Effects in Space

Long space missions can cause the immune system to become less effective at fighting off infections.

Circulatory System in Space

Being in space causes blood to collect in the upper part of the body, leading to increased blood pressure.

Heart Function in Space

The heart does not have to work as hard in space, which can weaken it if it is not sufficiently exercised.

Sleep Patterns in Space

Constant noise and light on a spacecraft make it difficult for astronauts to sleep.

Radiation Exposure in Space

Astronauts are exposed to increased cosmic radiation in space, which can cause flashes of light inside their eyelids.

International Space Station (ISS)

A habitable, low-orbit satellite continuously occupied by astronauts since 2000, serving as a joint project involving space agencies from the United States, Russia, Japan, Canada, and Europe.

ISS Purpose

The ISS allows for a constant human presence in space, enabling crew members to conduct experiments and study the long-term effects of microgravity on the human body.

Challenger Space Shuttle Disaster (1986)

The Challenger space shuttle exploded 73 seconds into lift-off, resulting in the death of all seven crew members.

Columbia Space Shuttle Disaster (2003)

The Columbia space shuttle broke apart upon re-entry to Earth after a two-week mission, killing all seven crew members.

Health Risks of Space Travel

Astronauts face risks to their physical condition due to the reduced effects of gravity in space.

Microgravity

The condition experienced in spacecraft where the effect of gravity is much smaller than on Earth.