Here's why having sex in space could be very dangerous for your health

Updated on August 11, 2023 at 9:02 PM

As space tourism expands, we may soon have the opportunity to have sex outside Earth. But it won't be without danger.

Here's why having sex in space could be very dangerous

The conquest of space is already underway. In just a few years, we'll probably be setting foot on the Moon, and we're already imagining what our first Martian villages will look like. Of course, if we're going to spend more time in space, we need to start thinking about how we're going to feed and house ourselves, as well as how we're going to carry out our intimate activities. Because 'space sex' is not yet a reality, but in theory, it could have consequences for our health.

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Space sex and cosmic radiation

Life in space is no picnic. As human beings are literally not designed to spend time outside the Earth's magnetic field, our bodies are sensitive to space radiation.

True, our vehicles and suits are designed to partially protect us from space particles, but what would happen if a fertilized egg were hit by cosmic radiation? The answer is... Well, there is no answer, because it's never happened.

The question is worth asking, however, because with the development of space tourism, the first coitus in zero gravity is just around the corner (if it hasn't already happened).

The effects of cosmic radiation could be devastating

In an interview with Business Insider, NASA's Dr. Kris Lenhardt said:

The consequences of a pregnancy in space could be very serious.

We're talking about complicated pregnancies, miscarriages and other problems that could affect the health of the mother-to-be. And this potential danger could affect women who have had sex before or after embarking on a spaceship.

Once again, the consequences are unknown, as no research has been done in this area... Space sex not being NASA's priority. In the absence of any studies, scientists are urging companies organizing space trips for private individuals to warn their customers of these risks.

On Thursday, August 10, Virgin Galactic is organizing its first tourist flight into Space. A company with a prophetic name?

This article has been translated from Gentside FR.

Sources used:

Business Insider: Space tourists will probably have sex up there, but they shouldn't get pregnant, researchers warn

Sky News: Virgin Galactic's first space tourism flight launches today - here's what you need to know