What are the physical requirements for going to space?

Additional requirements include the ability to pass the NASA long-duration space flight physical, which includes the following specific requirements: Distant and near visual acuity must be correctable to 20/20 in each eye, blood pressure not to exceed 140/90 measured in a sitting position, and the candidate must have a …

What preparation does an astronaut have before going to space?

During training, astronauts are familiarized with the engineering systems of the spacecraft including spacecraft propulsion, spacecraft thermal control, and life support systems. In addition to this, astronauts receive training in orbital mechanics, scientific experimentation, earth observation, and astronomy.

What do astronauts do before launch?

In the space shuttle, astronauts are strapped in on their backs a few hours before launch. As the main engines light, the whole vehicle rumbles and strains to lift off the launch pad. Seven seconds after the main engines light, the solid rocket motors ignite and this feels like a huge kick from behind.

What is the physical test for astronauts?

Astronauts’ eye and body coordination is tested when they try to throw a ball to a designated area while trying to maintain their balance. A 30-movement agility test also tackles eye and body coordination. In this physical challenge, astronauts are tested on how long it takes them to complete 30 movements.

What is NASA’s physical examination?

The required NASA long-duration spaceflight physical measures bodily functions like eyesight—20/20 vision is required, whether you have it naturally or with the help of corrective lenses—and blood pressure, which can’t exceed 140/90 when taken in the normal sitting position.

Where do astronauts sleep before launch?

On the International Space Station (ISS), astronauts sleep in crew quarters that are roughly the size of a phone booth.

Can you be an astronaut if you have a heart murmur?

Only a handful of astronaut medical disqualifications are in the public record. The problems of Mercury astronauts Deke Slayton (heart murmur) and Alan Shepard (inner-ear disorder) are well known, and both eventually were restored to flight status and flew in orbit.