Dr. Mae Jemison on The Importance of Space Exploration (2014)

 

Dr. Mae Jemison explains the importance of space exploration. The need to explore space can be a benefit to humanity. It can be a unifying force in a divided world. A new space race should not be an extension of world power competition. It should be an activity of collaboration among nations. Dr. Jemison explains humanity has bee connected to space  for most of its history. Ancient civilizations used the stars to make calendars and when to plant crops. The stars helped sailors navigate the seas.  Today satellites are essential for GPS. There exists a possibility in which human beings will colonize other planets and star systems. This will take a significant amount of time, effort, and innovations in technology. Dr. Mae Jemison wants to see humankind have that capability in a century. The 100 Year Starship project seeks to make this happen. Dr. Jemison wants space exploration to be a project in which all can be a part of. Space exploration she believes be enriching for the Earth. 

Outer Space Can Change Brain Size

Human bodies were evolved for environments with gravity . This causes complications with long term space travel. Living in a microgravity environment can result in changes in the muscular and skeletal system. Muscle and bone mass can decrease being in space for long periods of time. Ocular structure can also be dramatically altered. What scientists have found out is that the brain can also undergo changes. The human brain can enlarge in space. Health complications can be possible threats to astronauts attempting to colonize other planets in the distant future. The study showed from MRIs from eleven astronauts showed these changes. The problem is related to body fluids and the absence of an oxygen atmosphere. There still are many unknown factors about what being in Outer Space can do to the human body. If there is going to be a mission to Mars, there should be a full assessment of likely health risks.