Tension and relaxation in space-station science

摘要

Barring accidents, construction of the space station seems inevitable. Obstacles confront those hoping to achieve high-quality research there. There is a continuing need for close monitoring of priorities. Do people have a future in space? This publication has already stated its view that, when it comes to science carried out on planetary surfaces, scientists are best placed in laboratories remote from the action, back on Earth (Nature 388, 211; 1997). There is little sign that the public is much fascinated by astronauts' activities until things start to go wrong. Although there is a role for astronauts in carrying out science on the space station, the significance of that science has been much debated (see Briefing, pages 732-737). Perhaps the only significant reason to worry about human physiology, bone decay and plant growth in zero-gravity is the certainty that sooner or later, space tourism will be upon us.