Sex in space tough, says Nasa

Telegraph ^ | Valentine's Day, 2011 | Andy Bloxham

[LibWhacker]

Sexual reproduction is likely to be impossible in space due to cosmic radiation bombarding the human body, according to Nasa scientists.

Researchers at the agency's Ames Research Centre in California found that without effective shielding on spacecraft, powerful proton particles would probably sterilise any female embryo conceived in deep space

They also concluded that male fertility was likely to be negatively affected, with the particles damaging the sperm count.

Given that travel to distant planets is likely to take decades, centuries or longer, this could make any mission to colonise other environments a non-starter.

[cripplecreek]

Like playing ping pong against the drapes.

[Joe 6-pack]

Not only that, but it would be pretty hard to consummate a relationship wearing spacesuits.

[TonyInOhio]

What we need is some lead underwear.

[Natural Law]

I anticipate problems with docking and reentry.

[Buckeye Battle Cry]

Not to mention the constant hazard of globules of body fluids floating around the cabin.

[AU72]

Eric Holder is not going to happy is NASA is ruling out gay sex in space.

[Red Badger]

Cosmic rays go right thru lead.................

[brothers4thID]

Key phrase: “without adequate shielding”

Figure it out, problem solved.

[kabar]

Deep space probe?

[Delta Dawn]

This could lead to a new one:

Not tonight my fellow astronaut, my radiation level is up.

[null and void]

How would Laz hit it in zero g?

[lormand]

Sex in space tough, says Nasa

Gays and Minorities most effected

[Jack of all Trades]

No shortage of volunteers, willing to give it their best effort, I’ll bet though

[Scythian]

Space, where no one can hear you scream ...

[Mr. Lucky]

One word: Liquor.

[youngidiot]

I’d be willing to go on several missions to test things out, you know, to help my fellow man. Don’t call me a hero. I hate that word.

[TexasPatriot1]

20 Mile High Club?

[lormand]

Stupid headline though. I wouldn’t think that sex is tough in space, but reproductivity, according to the story.

[goat granny]

It seems that in zero gravity, its likely impossible..give it a picture and figure out how to do it....even naked.