How does sex in space work exactly? In a zero gravity environment, is it even possible without some assistance? I'm not quite clear on how it would work out. At the rate we're going, shows like Firefly and Battlestar Galactica won't be just sci-fi anymore, they'll be reality. So why is NASA ok with sending people into space, but not studying sex?
In a book published several years ago, scientists claimed that NASA deemed sex as inappropriate for them to study. In fact, when they were shown a video of guinea pigs having sex in a gravity-free environment, the tape was censored because they considered it "too racy".
Guinea pigs, really? Too racy?
Experiments have been conducted with computer stimulation to see which positions are possible in zero gravity conditions. Turns out the old Biblical standby, the missionary position, is not possible in space. Apparently, we need the downward force of gravity to make it possible here on Earth. Who knew.
According to the computer stimulation they ran, only four positions that they tested were possible "without assistance". Six positions required either a special elastic belt and an inflatable tunnel.
That's like having sex in a sleeping bag with a belly band. I think that just killed it for me.
Years after this book was published, it still sounds like NASA isn't all too eager when it comes to studying sex in space. But concerns about reproduction and the use of birth control methods in space are serious issues for astronauts going on long missions.
Sure, I get that people can choose to go without sex for long periods of time, but no one says you have to be celibate in space. So why is NASA still hesitant to conduct this research?
Some have compared space missions to South Pole exhibitions where researchers form intimate relationships that last only for the duration of their research. Which makes sense: you have needs, I have needs, let's solve them while we're freezing to death taking snow levels and pictures of landscapes.
While NASA is considering running tests to see how sex in space works and if the same conditions apply on earth, we still have no idea if they're going to do it or not.
And really, does anyone believe the astronauts haven't been getting it on up there? I'm sure if NASA conducted a few informal interviews they'd have more than enough information to release an official report.
Image from Getty.