What are the biology problems involved with space Colonization?

Question

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Answer 1

The main problem with space biology is how little we know about the behavior of earth organisms in space. The biggest problem is how little we know.

We know that gravity, air pressure, atmospheric composition and solar radiation effect organisms.

We know that in a weightless environment human muscles atrophy and bones lose calcium and weaken.

We do have enough knowledge of biology to build environments that will keep humans and plants alive for years in space with the addition of energy, air and water from outside.

We don't yet know what are the critical earth factors that must be duplicated, with technology, to establish thriving space colony ecosystems. Or which organisms will survive better in weightless environments. How will a bee behave in zero gravity?

Answer 2

Mutation over time. But then that's also an issue on Earth. The size of the colony or colonies will affect the rate of reproduction, as we will wish to avoid the possibility of overpopulating the colonies. People will have to be disease-free in order to be allowed entry into a biodome structure; there will have to be decontamination upon entry. Food sources will be limited and therefore rationing may be a necessity - none of the gluttony we enjoy now. Vegetarianism will be the norm.

Extensive psychological testing will be critical for all candidates before acceptance into a colony. Are they claustrophobic? Can they bear possible permanent separation from family and friends? Do they like the view, and can they handle the thought of never again going "outside"?

This is the best plate of bull I can offer up at 6:20 in the morning.

Answer 3

there are a number of chemistry problems in area colonization. the main intense question relies upon on the ambience of the colony. we could take Mars for example. ok Mars has little or no atmospheric gasses and tension. To colonize you're able to desire to ascertain a biomass producing oxygen in a self contained area to start. plant life may well be cultivated right here and gradually moved out . Photosynthesis will convert the CO2 exhaled by utilising the human beings and animals to O2 and glucose. yet another situation is the recycling of water.

Answer 4

The problem is that the earth (land, water, atmosphere and life) has the only environment that will promote and sustain life this is largely due to the distance from the sun. The only way to maintain life in space is to create and control an exact copy of this environment which will be next to impossible to maintain.

Answer 5

I'd like to add to Df382's comment. Another problem is the general unknowness of space. What other things are out there. . . . Not aliens in the traditional sense, but what about foreign bacterias and viruses? It could be like introducing small pox to Native Americans, absolutely devastating to the human race.

Answer 6

I think most problems would stem from the fact that the atmosphere in space is not suitable for human life.