NASA Sex in Space Program - Its Rise and Fall

By Julie-Ann Amos

For years, astronauts have travelled into space to observe the effects of weightlessness on the many aspects of human physiology. From muscle mass to general health, astronauts have researched the ways that weightlessness can affect the human body. As methods of space travel become more refined, more journeys into space become a certainty, and astronauts need to know what to expect. With each test, they learn how the body adapts to the unique weightless environment of space. Recent studies, however, have had a new focus. They have been studying sex.

Sexual Pleasures In Space

Astronauts set out to observe the effects of weightlessness on the experience of sexual pleasures. They called it the "Sex in Space" program. The scholarly exploits of astronauts were bound to extend to this fundamental aspect of human life sooner or later. It was only logical. Wherever you have people you are going to have sexual activity, and sending individuals into space brings this all too important issue into space along with them. The study of carnal pleasures as they are affected by space travel is long overdue. Considering the instrumental role that such pleasures play in the human condition, it is surprising that the studies have only taken place recently.

Sex And Science

Sex may seem to be a topic too taboo for an official mission. It almost feels a little naughty. The level of political correctness required in this day and age comes close to forbidding the commingling of sex and science. At best the meeting of sex and science conjures images of a relationship counsellor helping to bring the spark back into a waning marriage. At worst, it calls forth such pop culture terms as sexpert and sexologist, tongue-in-cheek references to experts in the field of sexual relations. These terms often steer the mind more toward adult entertainment than they do science. Still, these astronauts are trained professionals, and, as longer missions become more commonplace, astronauts will be bringing their physical needs with them into space. They cannot be expected to leave their sexuality behind.

No More Sex In Space?

Unfortunately, NASA's recent "Sex in Space" program, as it was so appropriately titled, was cancelled. The weightlessness had unforeseen hormonal effects on members of the ship's crew. The weightless environment increased their sensuality which had further consequences. It turns out that the male members of the crew experienced a shift in hormones which lead to several confrontations between them. The two female crew members, however, were not involved in the altercations.

NASA's "Sex in Space" program sounds more like a comedy sketch than serious scientific research, but it had a noble goal of understanding sexuality in space. As the science of space travel inches towards the technology that will create easier and more accessible space flights, the possibility of heading skyward takes tiny steps toward becoming a reality for the masses. There is only so much room here on earth so someday there will be no choice but to look to the stars.

Julie-Ann Amos is a professional writer and business consultant. She has over 14 books published in many countries. She runs Exquisite Writing, a large freelance writing agency that produces a wide variety of articles, web pages, website contents, books and ebooks for an international client base. Topic experts available for a wide range of subject areas.