Would You Be a Space Tourist?

We are on the brink of a new era in space exploration, as space tourism is no longer a distant dream but a viable option for those with deep pockets. Entrepreneurs like Richard Branson are already collecting funds for space travel, even though the technology is not yet available. Space tourism may seem extravagant, but it could lead to significant advancements in space technology. Neil deGrasse Tyson and Lynn Kowetz discussed this exciting development on StarTalk, with Bill Nye, the science guy, sharing his thoughts. While the cost might be out of reach for most, listeners were offered a free book and a year-long membership to the Planetary Society for calling in with their questions. The potential of space tourism goes beyond personal experience, as it could bring us closer to solving the challenges of space travel and making it accessible to everyone.

For a spaceplane to take off from a runway, fly in space, and return requires 95% fuel, leaving only 5% for the frame, passengers, and crew. Bill Nye, an engineer and science educator, emphasizes the importance of developing new materials and methods for creating spacecraft with such fuel efficiency. While the idea of space tourism may seem exciting, it's currently unrealistic due to the high fuel requirements and the significant cost. Bill Nye's "beer can theory" suggests that we don't yet have the technology to make this a reality. The concept of space travel being accessible to the masses raises concerns about the affordability and potential drawbacks, such as limited resources and the risk of motion sickness in zero gravity conditions.

The discussion revolved around the idea of going to space for the first time as a private venture, with Sir Richard Branson leading the way. The cost was estimated to be $200,000 per person, and the participants would undergo some level of training. However, some people expressed apprehension due to the unknowns, such as the lack of a spacecraft, spaceport, and NASA involvement. The risks involved, including the possibility of being the first to die in a space accident, also deterred some potential travelers. Despite these concerns, some, including an astrophysicist, expressed their willingness to go once the initial hurdles were overcome. Overall, the conversation highlighted the excitement and uncertainty surrounding the prospect of private space travel.

Space travel, even for a brief duration, comes with inherent risks that cannot be fully mitigated with current technology. Neil DeGrasse Tyson and Lynn Koplitz discussed these risks during their radio show, StarTalk. They talked about potential space sickness, the need for a pressurized cabin, and the presence of hazardous debris in space. Jerry, a caller, asked if there was any training required for space travel, to which Neil responded that there isn't any because it's impossible to prepare for unexpected hazards moving at high speeds. The conversation also touched on the potential cost of space travel, with Neil suggesting that it might be too expensive for most people. Despite these risks and costs, some people are still willing to take the chance. Overall, the conversation highlighted the excitement and adventure of space travel, but also the importance of acknowledging and addressing the risks involved.

Space travel, even on a hypothetical maiden voyage, holds immense appeal for many people, despite the potential risks and challenges. During a radio show discussion, callers shared their dreams of going into space and their expectations for the experience. Cheryl from Chatsworth expressed her long-held desire to go into space, stating that she would go "in a heartbeat." She imagined feeling weightless, having an awe-inspiring view of Earth, and leaving a memorable story for her future self. The hosts acknowledged the excitement and the potential risks, suggesting that psychological evaluation and training would be necessary. The conversation also touched on the visual wonders one could expect to see from space, such as stars in broad daylight and the curvature of Earth's surface. Overall, the discussion highlighted the captivating allure of space travel and the unique experiences it could offer.

Space is not empty as some might think. It contains various debris, tools, and even animals like the famous chimp Ham and the dog Laika. However, the XPRIZE Foundation, co-founded by Bob Weiss, aims to promote alternative ways of getting to space with a more affordable price point, around the equivalent of a family car, to make space travel an unforgettable experience for those willing to invest. Despite the risks and costs, the allure of space exploration continues to captivate individuals like John from Orange County, who dream of experiencing it firsthand.

Space travel is becoming more accessible and affordable, with organizations like the XPRIZE Foundation offering large rewards for innovative solutions to make space travel possible for the average person. Bob Weiss, from the XPRIZE Foundation, is encouraging anyone with a good idea to come forward and try to win the prize. However, Neil deGrasse Tyson expresses concerns about the commercialization of space and the potential loss of its purity. He remembers watching a movie from the 1960s that depicted a future with commercial businesses in space, and while he initially thought it was a bad idea, he now recognizes that commercial interests are necessary to make space travel an industry. The discussion also touches on the potential involvement of companies like Starbucks and Gap in space.

Pushing boundaries and taking risks, even if they come with potential dangers, is essential for progress and exploration. This was a topic of discussion during a radio segment, where the speaker shared his experience of being offered a free book promotion and his fear of flying. He used the example of aviation history, where many lives were lost in the pursuit of new frontiers. However, the speaker believed that the risks were worth taking because they led to significant advancements. He also criticized the current culture for being too risk-averse and suggested that people should strive to leave their comfort zones and explore new possibilities. The speaker also shared his personal preference for virtual reality experiences over physical adventures. Despite the risks, he believed that boundaries should be challenged and that the rewards could be great.

Space travel and amenities, including sexual activity, have been explored and considered by various space agencies. During a discussion on StarTalk, it was mentioned that NASA had once experimented with sexual positions in space as part of a study. However, the specifics of this study and any potential outcomes, such as pregnancies, remain uncertain and may be subject to secrecy. It's important to remember that space travel involves unique challenges due to weightlessness and the laws of physics, which can impact traditional sexual positions and activities. Overall, the exploration of space and its potential for human habitation continues to raise intriguing questions and challenges.

As space travel becomes more accessible, it will likely include hotels, residences, and even "space hookers," according to Neil deGrasse Tyson and his StarTalk guests. This was discussed in the context of Newton's laws of motion and the idea that space is a vacuum with no friction, meaning any thrust in one direction will cause a recoil and separation. The conversation also touched on the possibility of spreading ashes in space and the existence of The Planetary Society, the largest space interest group in the world. The society works with NASA and is involved in discovering new worlds and the search for life. As space exploration continues to advance, it's expected that various businesses and industries will follow, including tourism and potentially even space hookers. This was all discussed in a lighthearted and humorous manner on the StarTalk radio show.