SPACE SICKNESS Meaning and
Definition
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Space sickness, also known as space adaptation syndrome or zero gravity sickness, is a physiological condition that is experienced by individuals when they are exposed to the environment of outer space. It is a type of motion sickness that occurs due to the subtle changes in the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and orientation in relation to gravity.
When an individual enters the microgravity environment of space, the absence of gravity has profound effects on the body. The fluid in the inner ear, which is crucial for sensing movement, becomes disturbed, leading to a mismatch between visual and vestibular input. This discontinuity between what the eyes see and what the body's balance system senses can trigger various symptoms.
Some common symptoms of space sickness include nausea, dizziness, disorientation, headache, loss of appetite, and general malaise. These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, with some individuals experiencing them more severely than others. The severity and duration of space sickness symptoms also depend on factors such as an individual's susceptibility to motion sickness, adaptation to the new environment, and the duration of exposure to microgravity.
While many astronauts go through a period of adaptation where they experience space sickness, the symptoms typically reduce over time as the body adjusts and compensates for the changes. Various measures such as medication, vestibular training, and gradually increasing exposure to microgravity can help alleviate the symptoms and aid in the adaptation process.
Understanding and managing space sickness is crucial for the successful exploration and habitation of outer space, as it allows for proper crew selection, training, and the development of countermeasures to mitigate the negative effects of prolonged exposure to a microgravity environment.
Etymology of SPACE SICKNESS
The term "space sickness" is a compound word derived from the combination of the word "space" and "sickness".
The word "space" originated from the Latin word "spatium", which meant "area" or "extent". In the English language, "space" refers to the vast expanse that exists beyond Earth, including the area between celestial bodies.
The word "sickness" refers to a state of being unwell or suffering from a physical or mental ailment. Its ultimate origin is uncertain, but it is believed to have derived from the Old English word "seocnes", which meant "sickness" or "disease".
Together, the term "space sickness" specifically refers to the condition or sensation experienced by astronauts when they travel in outer space.
