Can humans live on other planets?

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In summary, our bodies may require Earth-like gravity for optimal functioning, making it unlikely for humans to live on other planets. However, rotating space stations could potentially simulate this gravity and allow for long-term living in outer space. The use of low doses of specific steroids may also help prevent muscle wastage in such environments. The challenges and potential solutions for human colonization of other planets will likely involve significant biological engineering efforts. There may also be unknown effects on embryonic development in varying gravity conditions.
  • #1
Aquamarine
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Our bodies may require a gravity that is equal to that of Earth. If so, then it may never be possible to live on other planets. The future of humanity may therefore be in outer space, for example in rotating space stations.

http://www.faqs.org/docs/Newtonian/Newtonian_91.htm

Does anyone know more about this?
 
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  • #2
Surely the rotating space stations could rotate at the necessary angular velocity to provide us with sufficient centripetal acceleration?

They could use low doses of anabolic (low androgenic) steroids to prevent muscle wastage. Side effects would be minimal (because of the low doses and the specific nature of the steroids that would be used for this purpose).
 
  • #3
Aquamarine said:
Our bodies may require a gravity that is equal to that of Earth. If so, then it may never be possible to live on other planets.

I think this largely assumes that the person is returning to Earth someday (in which case bone & muscle loss would be difficult once he/she returns to "normal" gravity). If the person is planning permanent colonization (obviously a goal for future generations), then the problem may not be as great.
 
  • #4
Other planets are extremely harsh. We could go there at enormous cost, but humans are not made for other planets. Colonization will await serious biological engineering.
 
  • #5
I also wonder about the effects of different gravity in the embryonic development... I think they grew tadpoles (or a earlier stage, I don't recall) in zero gravity once, and they grew somehow turned in a wrong direction, but I don't remember of other effects, if they completed the development besides that or not...
 

Related to Can humans live on other planets?

1. Can humans physically survive on other planets?

It depends on the planet in question. For example, humans cannot survive on the surface of Mars without protective gear due to its thin atmosphere and lack of oxygen. However, with the right technology and resources, humans could potentially live on other planets in our solar system such as Venus or even moons like Europa.

2. What challenges would humans face living on other planets?

Some of the main challenges include adapting to different gravity levels, dealing with extreme temperatures and radiation, and finding ways to sustain a livable environment. There may also be psychological and social challenges for humans living in isolation on another planet.

3. How would humans get to and from other planets?

Currently, the main method of transportation to other planets is through space exploration missions using spacecrafts. In the future, advancements in technology may make it possible for humans to travel to other planets in a more efficient and sustainable way, such as through the use of advanced propulsion systems and space habitats.

4. Could humans establish a permanent settlement on another planet?

It is possible for humans to establish a permanent settlement on another planet, but it would require significant resources and advancements in technology. This would also involve finding ways to sustain life on the planet in terms of food, water, and energy sources.

5. What are the potential benefits of humans living on other planets?

There are several potential benefits, including expanding our understanding of the universe, discovering new resources and opportunities, and potentially finding alternative habitable environments in case of a catastrophic event on Earth. It could also lead to technological advancements and innovations that could benefit humanity as a whole.

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