Limitations with deep space exploration Future of space exploration

1 limitations deep space exploration

1.1 technical limitations

1.1.1 distances
1.1.2 propulsion , fuel


1.2 human limitations

1.2.1 physiological issues
1.2.2 psychological issues
1.2.3 resources , sustenance

limitations deep space exploration

the future possibilities deep space exploration held set of technical, practical, astronomical, , human limitations, define future of manned , unmanned space exploration. of 2017, farthest man-made probe has traveled current nasa mission voyager 1, 13 billion miles, or 19.5 light hours away earth, while nearest star around 4.24 light years away.

technical limitations

the current status of space-faring technology, including propulsion systems, navigation, resources , storage present limitations development of human space exploration in near future.

distances

the astronomical order of magnitude of distance between , nearest stars challenge current development of space exploration. @ our current top speed of 157,100 miles per hour, helios 2 probe arrive @ nearest star, proxima centauri, in around 18,000 years, longer human lifespan.

propulsion , fuel

the vasimr plasma based propulsion engine

in terms of propulsion, main challenge liftoff , initial momentum, since there no friction in vacuum of space. based on missions goals, including factors such distance, load , time of flight, type of propulsion drive used, planned use, or in design varies chemical propellants, such liquid hydrogen , oxidizer (space shuttle main engine), plasma or nanoparticle propellants.

project longshot nuclear fission engine schematic

as future developments, theoretical possibilities of nuclear based propulsion have been analyzed on 60 years ago, such nuclear fusion (project daedalus) , nuclear pulse propulsion (project longshot), have since been discontinued practical research nasa. on more science fiction side, theoretical alcubierre drive presents mathematical solution “faster-than-light” travel, require mass-energy of jupiter, not mention technical issues.

human limitations

the human part of manned space exploration add physiological , psychological issues , limitations future possibilities of space exploration, along need storage , supply of sustenance.

physiological issues

the transitioning gravity magnitudes on body detrimental orientation, coordination, , balance. without constant gravity, bones suffer disuse osteoporosis, , mineral density falls 12 times faster average elderly adult’s. without regular exercise , nourishment, there can cardiovascular deterioration , loss in muscle strength. dehydration can cause kidney stones, , constant hydro-static potential in zero-g can shift body fluids upwards , cause vision problems.

furthermore, without earth’s surrounding magnetic field, solar radiation has harsher effects in space. exposure can include damage central nervous system (altered cognitive function, reduced motor function, , behavioral changes) , degenerative tissue diseases.

psychological issues

the biosphere 2 greenhouse habitat

according nasa, isolation in space can have detrimental effects on human psyche. behavioral issues, such low morale, mood-swings, depression, , decreasing interpersonal interactions, irregular sleeping rhythms, , fatigue occur independently level of training, according set of nasa s social experiments. famous of which, biosphere 2, 2 year long, 8 person crew experiment in 1990 s, in attempt study human necessities , survival in isolated environment. result of stressed interpersonal interactions , aloof behavior, including limiting , ceasing contact between crew members , along failing sustain lasting air-recycling system , food supply.

resources , sustenance

considering future possibility of extended, manned missions, food storage , resupply relevant limitations. storage point of view, nasa estimates 3 year mars mission require around 24 thousand pounds (10,000 kg) of food, of in form of precooked, dehydrated meals of 1.5 pounds portion. fresh produce available in beginning of flight, since there not refrigeration systems. water s relative heavy weight limitation, on international space station (iss) use of water per person limited 11 liters day, compared average americans 132 liters.

the iss veggie plant growth system , red romaine lettuce

as resupply, efforts have been made recycle, reuse , produce, make storage more efficient. water can produced through chemical reactions of hydrogen , oxygen in fuel cells, , attempts , methods of growing vegetables in micro-gravity being developed , continue researched. lettuce has grown in iss s veggie plant growth system , , has been consumed astronauts, though large-scale plantation still impractical, due factors such pollination, long growth periods, , lack of efficient planting pillows.