April 29, 2004
The merest bromide
"Nasa is talking about the chemical sterilisation of astronauts on longer journeys," Dr Armstrong said, in a talk discussing the problems humanity may face in trying to reach the planets and, eventually, the stars
Nasa was nonplussed by the suggestion yesterday. But scientists [...] are concerned that the emotional fallout from having a crew where some are happier than others, or where relationships are made and then fall apart, could be disastrous. He noted the comments of one Russian cosmonaut about time spent cooped up in the Mir space station that "when you have two people locked up in a very small environment for months at a time, all the conditions for murder are met." Mix in sex, and you almost have the script of Othello in space.
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Now, where did I read about some American getting assaulted by a drunk Russian in space? Or did I dream that?
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But scientists [...] are concerned that the emotional fallout ... Yes, I would think that could be a factor when you're discussing CHEMICAL STERILIZATION! The job lines must be out the door on this one. What about just using Wellbutrin, Paxil, or Lexapro? That way you don't give a damn if you can't get it on.
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Rachel Armstrong is an ex-pediatrician, now working as a professional talking head due to the merit of her pretty face. She's hardly an authority on this topic. Witness her calling libido suppression "chemical sterilization." Some sort of chemical happy-maker certainly seems like a good idea if you're going to spend a year in confinement with one or two other naked apes. Any diminution of the humping urge would be a welcome side effect.