10 Astounding Facts You Didn't Know About Space Travel
3. Living in the Void: The Human Aspect of Space Travel

Space is an inhospitable environment, presenting numerous challenges to human survival. The absence of gravity profoundly affects the human body, from muscle atrophy to bone density loss. Astronauts must undergo rigorous training and adhere to strict exercise regimens to mitigate these effects. The psychological impact of isolation and confinement poses significant challenges, as astronauts spend extended periods away from family and familiar surroundings. The design of spacecraft and space stations must prioritize their occupants' well-being, providing life-sustaining systems and spaces for relaxation and recreation. Understanding and addressing these human factors becomes increasingly critical as we look toward longer missions, such as those to Mars.