Introduction
Space travel is real and a dream come true for most individuals. When one puts themselves into the mindset of a space explorer, their perspective on space exploration changes forever. Arguably, space has been considered a vital element that has encompassed human actions of investigating the universe beyond the atmosphere with the help of crewed and un-crewed spacecraft. Historically, space exploration originated over 50 years ago when the first human-made satellite Sputnik 1 was launched into outer space. For instance, space technology and developments have marked the incredible journey to space, revealing the new exploration page currently at its peak. This paper will primarily focus on the analysis and fundamental elements of space exploration. An analysis of the physical and psychological effects of space exploration on humans will be discussed, in addition to spaceflight technology, and spacecraft technology. The main argument of this work is that space exploration is a necessity, while also being a personally and socially beneficial practice. It allows participants to acquire a unique set of competencies and experience emotions unlike any other.
Literature Review
To understand the subject of space exploration, it is necessary to cover it in more detail. In his article, Agha analyzes space exploration, particularly surgical insights, and future perspectives. The review aimed to investigate vital elements of space exploration processes. Agha’s discussion encompassed critical topics, including microgravity, risks, operating environment, astronauts, and prospects for future space exploration (Agha 265). The author adopted peer review techniques to carry out the analysis. Further, the findings indicated that space exploration has significantly improved technological adoption and advances. As a result of space exploration, numerous scientific innovations have emerged to sustain the human need to explore the universe. The study has also found that aspects of life such as business, hygiene, medicine, computer, and technology are positively impacted by space exploration. It was further revealed that numerous nations have institutional programs to support space exploration and to meet the desires attributed to the same. As for the future implications, the article pointed out a series of risks that were associated with the venture of exploring the universe. However, there were considerable benefits that had a wide range and implications for the life of human beings. Therefore, despite the risks and uncertainties within space exploration, technology, and innovation should be channeled to majorly focus on risk management and reduction to enhance the success of the space exploration exercise. Since the future relies on how thriving technology can be instituted to understand the universe better. Therefore, the study implies that effectiveness in coordination with critical elements such as industrial development, medical, and computerized technology would primarily result in desirable outcomes for space exploration.
Continuing the theme of technological advancement space technology, Maiwalk et al., divulge deeper into the intricacies of space technology. Space exploration technology is considered a function of space research and experimental studies. Maiwald et al., (1) discuss supporting sustainable development with spaceflight technology in this article. It is evident in the study that spaceflight was the most instrumental element that acted as the driving force and backbone of the exploration processes to the orbital surface. Peer review techniques are used to effectively evaluate the technology used in spaceflight while analyzing the subsequent improvement since the first development of the spacecraft. The article postulated a series of findings in support of the same. Firstly, it touched upon the efficacy of computers and power generation. It was revealed that computers played an instrumental role in pivoting the spacecraft operation. It was found that spaceflight technology was heavily reliant on computerized technology, which consistently improved since its first evolution. Secondly, the article revealed how aerospace developments developed modern technology to support spaceflights. It further pointed out the sustainable impact of aerospace engineering on the earth’s development. Furthermore, the findings indicated how the current application had impacted the existing technologies on the earth. As part of the observable areas, the article focused on the use associated with favorable space, ground, and resources utilized in the research, mainly on closed-loop technology.
An article by Maiwalk et al. has especially important future implications, and its examination is capable of deepening one’s understanding of the aerospace sphere. Further, this work was crucial as it revealed sectorial development, especially in the technology and aerospace engineering industry. Such would rapidly form engaging factors that would drive future improvement and innovation in aerospace and technology. The article had future implications as its applicability was limited to aerospace development and enhancement of the earth’s sustainability through aerospace. Therefore, the field of spaceflight as a result of aerospace would likely result in major development within the Earth hence improving the cause of Earth as a sustainable body. As a result, the article connects aviation and industries that mainly rely on the earth.
Support of the Argument
Observations have indicated that space exploration has increased instances of human interaction with strange matters in space. A study by Pagel and Chouker (1450) mainly relies on vital elements of isolation and confinement attributed to space exploration on human beings as they were seen to be detached from their loved ones while in outer space. As part of the analysis, the article adopted a peer review methodology which provided inferences for the work as a whole.
Secondly, the article’s findings revealed that the sense of loneliness resulting from physical isolation impacted the astronauts mentally as it was considered a form of exclusion, hence punishment. Further, the findings indicated that isolation and seclusion had worsening impacts on individuals’ stress levels and could result in diseases. The findings were essential in initiating corrective action to overcome uncalled-for scenarios. Therefore, the article’s future implications are influential since it can be adopted as a mechanism of change, particularly in the training component of astronauts on stress management. Further, the article can be implicated to provide inferences on best practices to be instituted by the aerospace department to improve the comfort of astronauts whenever they are lonely in space. Such would significantly improve the welfare and success of astronauts’ missions simultaneously.
The efficacy of space exploration has manifested in several areas. For instance, it has attracted limitless studies on the life and sustainability of the life of astronauts while in space. In support of space life, a survey on heavy-ion carcinogenesis and human space exploration aimed to investigate the link between carcinogenesis of heavy ions and human exploration and its impacts on human health (Durante and Cucinotta 465). The study was instrumental in focusing on astronauts and their actions in space missions. For instance, before the commencement of the astronaut’s missions, scientists must extensively examine and accurately estimate and minimize the risks of cancer and exposure to other diseases. The study adopted a peer review analysis methodology to gather adequate information and interpretation. The findings revealed that radiation in space was more harmful than the earth’s radiation, hence pointing out the need to protect the astronauts from the radiation impacts actively.
In addition, the findings revealed that the high degree and intensity of radiation in space were highly associated with two types of heavy ions, including heavy nuclei and high-energy protons. Due to the attained findings, a resolution on radiation controls has been instituted to improve the efficiency of space visits and enhancement of healthy lifestyle of the explorers. Most importantly, the study is instrumental in initiating deeper insight into radiobiology, especially cancer, to better support space exploration. Furthermore, the paper can be effectively adopted in place of the expedition on space-related cancer and mechanisms to manage the same. However, despite significant insights into space-related cancer, space cancer’s degree of impact on human health has yet to be thoroughly examined.
Moreover, vital studies have been conducted on deep space exploration (Weiren 6). The article primarily focused on the impoverishment of human civilization due to space exploration. This would rapidly result in the improvement of the space exploration program. In support of space improvement, the paper investigated how the process of space exploration has resulted in an increased understanding of the universe. The study adopted a peer review methodology in which limitless research was previewed to gather analysis insights. As part of the findings, it was revealed that space exploration has been in progress over the last 50 years. The duration has been a factor of continuous improvement, which has evolved. Further, the study revealed that humankind had made important achievements, mainly attributed to increased invention and innovation.
As a nation, China has been revealed to have been prosperous in its journey to space exploration. Recent observation has indicated its progress in space technology, where it successfully tested heavy thrust carrier rocket and deep space TTC network. Such indicators have significantly improved human capacity to enter and explore space actions that have enhanced basic disciplines for mechanics, astronomy and physics, material building, and information. Such has been perceived to be instrumental in spearheading space exploration. Also, the findings have revealed that the increase in space exploration has significantly driven technological innovations and scientific discoveries targeted at enhancing the space exploration experience. As part of future implications, engagement in space exploration has definitive impacts such as enhancement of expertise through equipping humankind with the ability to solve technology-related problems. Secondly, the study directly contributed to improving the Chinese economy. Finally, such involvement implies an improved future of space exploration as a form of civilization for mankind.
Astronauts have different experiences when they do space exploration. White (73) in his study focused on answering the question of why human beings should explore space. The findings revealed that astronauts entail different philosophies, which are functions of perceptions. The results suggested that many astronauts believed that the space experience altered their consciousness and feelings. The results further revealed that activities in space such as exercise, clouds, and weightlessness highly contributed to the astronauts’ feelings band perception of space.
Nevertheless, every experience was found to leave a stronger impression on the astronaut’s body. As a result, direct impact on their actions. It was evident that space exploration laid the foundation of human society in the external environment away from earth (White 73). This article will be crucial, particularly on improving astronomy and astronauts’ experience whenever in space. With all of the presented arguments, the article will avail adequately on the reader’s perspective regarding space experience.
This article aimed to investigate health risks associated with space exploration, particularly from the perspective of biological features embedded in spaceflight. The study by (Afshinnekoo et al. 1165) focused on the fundamental biological feature of spaceflight. The study adopted a peer review methodology as part of its analysis. The findings revealed the existence of six features of spaceflight biology. As part of the future implications, the article has resulted in a practical understanding of molecular changes within the scope of space travel. The experience will effectively improve the organism’s analysis of damage, allowing possible solutions as part of space exploration.
Counter Argument
However, it is important to note that some sources highlight the potential dangers and detriments of space travel. Costs, in particular, are a high concern, along with the proposed effects space exploration may have on the human mind. Pagel and Chouker (1450) proposed that loneliness and isolation negatively affect the mental well-being of astronauts. Spending prolonged periods without human contact can potentially be detrimental to one’s ability to exist in society The study found that space exploration harmed the astronauts, particularly their social life and ability to interact effectively. The research indicated that space exploration directly impacted an individual’s social behavior. Being a vital component of human relations, it can be understood as beneficial to human survival. Significant indulgence in space exploration negatively affected individual capabilities to express themselves socially. Several studies have been conducted on space exploration and settlement. Makaya et al. (5) focused on investigating the properties of materials needed for most ambitious space missions and described the adopted design and testing or incomes before incorporation into the exercises. The analysis adopted an analytical methodology to evaluate the respective materials effectively. The findings indicated that due to the scarcity in the attainment of materials for spaceship production, the sustainability of astronauts was highly jeopardized. Similarly, it was revealed that an insufficient supply of the materials for spaceship production limited the continuity of space exploration as only a limited number of vessels could be produced. Further, the study revealed that space exploration resulted in emissions that directly altered the environment and sustainability of the astronaut’s life. High emissions from spacecraft technology resulted in the depletion of the ozone layer while endangering the Earth as a result threatening the existence of species on the Earth.
To control the adversity associated with space exploration there is a need to improve the technology for the spacecraft. Future spacecraft propulsion systems are other aspects of space exploration under study that should be revisited equitably. In their book, Czysz and Claudio (284) focused on investigating the appropriate enabling technology for space exploration. The text adopted a pragmatic approach to effectively analyze a series of technology adopted in the future to facilitate space travel. The findings indicated the visible expansion in technology and advance in rocket engines and rocket propulsion technology, which were limited to technological uncertainties that negatively impact the capability to develop sophisticated spacecraft systems. This aspect posed a more remarkable change in the progression of space exploration. Hypersonic could be highly instrumental in space exploration, the inability to incorporate the technology in spacecraft limits the ability and continuity of space exploration. In addition, the findings showed a flaw in multidisciplinary integration between the spectrums of hypersonic vehicles’ orbital capabilities and propulsion systems.
Conclusion
Space exploration is an important part of the modern world, bringing with it several technological and social benefits. The review provided the importance of space exploration concerning the earth and the environment, especially in the global economy. In addition, the examined works indicated spaceflight technology’s various qualities, with the ability to affect the lives of astronauts being chief among them. While certain issues exist, particularly regarding the deterioration of interpersonal skills and costs, space exploration undoubtedly produces more benefits. With the proper introduction of sustainable systems, as well as mental safeguards for astronauts, it is possible to make space exploration far less strenuous. Adequate understanding and materializing of the spacecraft in terms of materials used proved vital. It enhanced the security of human lives and the success of the actual space exploration process. This study was objective in that it provided inferences for further research. The direct repercussions of the importance attributed to the radical change in space exploration would significantly enhance the emergence of space travel agencies to the benefit of the whole population.
Works Cited
Afshinnekoo, Ebrahim, et al. “Fundamental Biological Features of Spaceflight: Advancing the Field to Enable Deep-Space Exploration.” Cell, vol. 183, no. 5, 2020, pp. 1162-1184.
Agha, Riaz. “Space exploration – Surgical insights and future perspectives.” International Journal of Surgery, vol. 3, no. 4, 2005, pp. 263-267.
Czysz, Paul A., and Claudio Bruno. Future Spacecraft Propulsion Systems: Enabling Technologies for Space Exploration. Springer Science & Business Media, 2006.
Durante, Marco, and Francis A. Cucinotta. “Heavy ion carcinogenesis and human space exploration.” Nature Reviews Cancer, vol. 8, no. 6, 2008, pp. 465-472.
Maiwald, Volker, et al. “From space back to Earth: supporting sustainable development with spaceflight technologies.” Sustainable Earth, vol. 4, no. 1, 2021.
Makaya, Advenit, et al. “Towards out of earth manufacturing: overview of the ESA materials and processes activities on manufacturing in space.” CEAS Space Journal, 2022.
Pagel, J. I., and A. Choukèr. “Effects of isolation and confinement on humans-implications for manned space explorations.” Journal of Applied Physiology, vol. 120, no. 12, 2016, pp. 1449-1457.
White, Frank. “The Overview Effect: Space Exploration and Human Evolution, Second Edition.” 1998.
Wu, WeiRen, et al. “Investigation on the development of deep space exploration.” Science China Technological Sciences, vol. 55, no. 4, 2012, pp. 1086-1091.