03. Aside from the basic living requirements such as food, oxygen and water, what are the basic things that a human being would need to survive in outer space? What kind of equipment would be needed? (A K2S Question)
From The Space Library
Beyond the basic living requirements and radiation shielding, people need temperature regulation inside their spaceships. That is, it can't be too hot or too cold—it has to be just right. But outer space is a near perfect vacuum with no atmosphere or particles to maintain temperatures. This means that when spaceships are in the sunlight they can heat up to 250° F, and in the dark can cool down to -250° F. Therefore, we need to have heaters and coolers to deal with these wild temperature swings. Other things essential to survival in space include reliable communications, some medical treatment capabilities, computers which help operate the spacecraft, and effective toilet and waste-removal systems, of course. Finally, people in space also need social interaction companionship, connections to people on the ground, and recreation time. Many long-term space travelers experience depression after the first few weeks in space and may become fatigued, have a lack of motivation, become irritable, and have problems sleeping. Having friends with you is important for survival in space, just as it is on Earth.
Answer provided by Brad McLain & Liv Arnesen
Question and Answer extracted from the book Kids to Space - by Lonnie Schorer
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