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NASA Puts A Stop To Space Romance

Posted by Zonk on from the heinlein-rolling-in-his-grave dept.

electro-donkey writes "According to a New Scientist article, romantic entanglements among astronauts could derail long-haul space trips. A top-level NASA panel has decided, though it could alleviate boredom, space sex could cause trouble too. On a mission to Mars, for example, which would take up to 30 months, sexual conflict or infidelity could lead to a 'breakdown in crew functioning'."

1 of 431 comments (clear)

  1. What is worse by atlep · · Score: 5, Interesting

    What is worse than 30 months without sex? 30 months in a small closed environment, where others have sex, but you don't get any.

    Man, that would get me frustrated beyond reason. And the realisation of this is why I understand why NASA is doing this.

    Actually, 30 months without sex, I think I could do it if I were on such a mission. Because I would be mentally prepared for this. I know the other crewmembers are not having sex either. And the sex fixation in our siciety would not be there on a daily basis. Of course, I would expect periods of frustration. But I don't think it would be a major problem.

    When there is no potential for sex, when there is no constant reminder of sex around you, it is much easier to live without it. But if others in your crew are having sex, and you don't get any. That would really make things difficult.

    Of course, drugs that temporary kill libido would be very welcome too.