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The Universe to Women: Stars and Seas, Thorns Too

Tech 2024-08-26 17:07:15 Source: Network
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The Universe to Women: Stars and Seas, Thorns TooOn April 12, 1961, Yuri Gagarin became the first human to venture into space, igniting the global flame of manned space exploration. However, throughout more than half a century of space exploration, the presence of women has been remarkably scarce

The Universe to Women: Stars and Seas, Thorns Too

The Universe to Women: Stars and Seas, Thorns Too

On April 12, 1961, Yuri Gagarin became the first human to venture into space, igniting the global flame of manned space exploration. However, throughout more than half a century of space exploration, the presence of women has been remarkably scarce. Out of over 500 astronauts, only around 50, which translates to a mere 10%, are women. More thought-provoking is the fact that these female astronauts are required to take contraceptives before embarking on space missions. The reason behind this reveals another test the universe poses to women.

The Universe to Women: Stars and Seas, Thorns Too

Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman in space, was a fervent admirer of Gagarin's spaceflight, dreaming of soaring into the cosmos and becoming part of the stars and the sea. In 1962, the news of the Soviet Union forming a female astronaut team ignited Tereshkova's hope, leading her to be selected as one of the pioneering female astronauts.

The Universe to Women: Stars and Seas, Thorns Too

To conquer space, Tereshkova and the other female astronauts underwent rigorous training. They endured 600 kilograms of gravity in centrifuges, overcoming dizziness and breathing difficulties. They wore heavy flight suits in scorching heat, enduring temperatures reaching 80 degrees Celsius. They spent seven days and nights alone in confined spaces, testing their psychological resilience. Ultimately, Tereshkova stood out, embarking on her first space mission in June 1963.

The Universe to Women: Stars and Seas, Thorns Too

However, the journey to space wasn't as easy as imagined. The cramped space of the spacecraft forced Tereshkova to remain in a semi-reclining position for extended periods, causing nausea, dizziness, and other symptoms. Even more terrifying was the delayed opening of her parachute during re-entry due to strong winds, leaving Tereshkova unconscious. Ultimately, she miraculously survived, becoming a Soviet heroine.

The Universe to Women: Stars and Seas, Thorns Too

Concurrently, the United States was actively developing its female astronaut program, aiming to compete with the Soviet Union in the field of manned space exploration. However, during the early stages of the Mercury program, 13 women with exceptional physical fitness were recruited for training. Yet, their bodies exhibited varying degrees of negative reactions during simulated ground environments, leading to their elimination. The United States even went so far as to categorize women as unfit for manned space missions. It wasn't until 30 years after the Soviet Union successfully achieved female spaceflight that the United States sent a female astronaut into space.

The Universe to Women: Stars and Seas, Thorns Too

So, why were women considered unsuitable for space? This is closely linked to their unique physiological structure.

The Universe to Women: Stars and Seas, Thorns Too

Firstly, gravity plays a crucial role in the body's blood circulation. In space, the microgravity environment can cause the blood circulation to slow down, increasing the risk of intermittent blood backflow, leading to blood clots and potentially life-threatening situations.

The Universe to Women: Stars and Seas, Thorns Too

Secondly, a woman's menstrual cycle poses a significant challenge for spaceflight. During menstruation, the body's immune system weakens, making women susceptible to menstrual cramps and other discomforts. These issues can be amplified in the unique environment of space, potentially affecting the astronaut's physiological functions and even jeopardizing their lives. Additionally, menstrual flow can increase under microgravity, resulting in anemia. More importantly, the ability for menstrual blood to be expelled normally in a weightless state is an unknown risk. If menstrual blood flows backward, the consequences could be disastrous.

The Universe to Women: Stars and Seas, Thorns Too

Based on these reasons, many countries prioritize men for manned space missions. However, as times have changed, women have also gained the opportunity to embark on space missions. As a precautionary measure, they are required to take contraceptives before their missions to mitigate the influence of their menstrual cycle.

The Universe to Women: Stars and Seas, Thorns Too

These contraceptives are categorized as "short-term contraceptives" and can elevate the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body, thickening the uterine lining. However, this isn't a long-term solution. Once estrogen and progesterone levels reach a certain point, the body's hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis reduces their production, causing menstruation. Therefore, female astronauts taking short-acting contraceptives can generally only perform short-duration missions.

The Universe to Women: Stars and Seas, Thorns Too

So, are women incapable of carrying out long-term space missions? The answer is no. With advancements in technology, an increasing number of women are embarking on long-term missions in space. To ensure the health and efficiency of female astronauts, various measures have been established worldwide. During their menstrual period, female astronauts' workload is significantly reduced, and spacewalks are prohibited. They prepare blood replenishing and sanitary supplies beforehand, and the spacecraft cabin offers a dedicated private space and specialized "urinals" for them.

The Universe to Women: Stars and Seas, Thorns Too

Although women face more challenges in space exploration, requiring greater effort, this doesn't diminish their significance. Women's inherent meticulousness and patience contribute unique advantages to aerospace missions, even surpassing male astronauts in certain aspects.

The Universe to Women: Stars and Seas, Thorns Too

As manned spaceflight technology continues to mature, an increasing number of women are joining the ranks of space exploration. They will continue to push their boundaries, unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos. In the future, we will witness more women gracing the expanse of space, contributing to the advancement of human civilization. The universe may not be particularly affectionate or forgiving towards women, but it can't hinder their pursuit of dreams. Stars and seas, thorns too, but the courage and wisdom of women will illuminate the path forward.


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