Houston, we have a problem!
The final, intimate frontier
Love and sex are central to human life.
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To date, however, space programs have almost completely omitted the subject of sex in space.
Pleasure and taboo
But human sexuality is about more than just reproduction.
It includes complex psychological, emotional, and relational dynamics.
Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson answers a fan question about sex in space.
Love and sex are also pursued for fun and pleasure.
As such, space exploration requires the courage to address the intimate needs of humans honestly and holistically.
Abstinence is not a viable option.
On the contrary, facilitating masturbation or partnered sex could actually help astronautsrelax, sleep and alleviate pain.
It could also help thembuild and maintain romantic or sexual relationshipsand adapt to space-life.
They may also think that this is a non-issue or that there are morepressing matters to attend to.
