Why don’t feel hungry in space?
Research Findings
Research at RMIT University in Australia has been conducted to determine why In space, astronauts don’t eat much. They find the food they consume so happily on Earth to be boring in space. However, In this, researchers utilized virtual reality and a space flight simulation environment.
The study findings have been published in the The International Journal of Food Science and Technology
Why don’t feel hungry in space?
Experience hunger in space
Indian-born NASA astronaut Sunita Williams has not yet returned to Earth Because of an issue with the aircraft. It had been about a month since she was lost in space. In the meanwhile, a lot of people are curious in what astronauts eat in space.
As per the claims in the media, Sunita Williams is carrying samosas on her space journey. People might be surprised to hear, nevertheless, that astronauts don’t eat much when they are in space. In space, they find the same food that they consume with such enjoyment on Earth to be boring.
Let’s explore this reason in details
Scientists at RMIT University in Australia have been researching why astronauts do not experience hunger in space. This study evaluates the effects of space flight on a person’s sense of smell and eating habits using virtual reality and a simulated spaceship environment. In the International Journal of Food Science and Technology, the research results have been published.
The senses no longer function as they once did
To truly enjoy food, we must use all of our senses. When we eat a piece of fruit, for example, its flavor—sweet, sour—texture—crunch—color—red, green, etc.—and touch—firmness” all contribute to its overall enjoyment. Our enjoyment of eating will be decreased if any of these senses is dulled.
One possible reason for why astronauts do not taste their meals as much in space is that there is no gravity. In the absence of gravity, body fluids flow toward the head rather than the feet, which can lead to issues like blocked nose. So have probably also noticed that many of our favorite foods taste less in the winter when the nose gets stuffy and the distinct smell of food is not present.
Eating in front of the stars is not especially amazing.
Research has indicated that eating the same food in different settings might result in different opinions of the dish. The difference between eating down the identical meal at desk at the job and having a picnic in a beautiful park is noticeable.
In the same way, space is an unusual and always dark place. Astronauts live on a spaceship surrounded by stars with no boundaries between personal and business areas. It’s similar to a pandemic lockdown, with limited food and supplies
Research Involved Bringing Space to Earth
In spacecraft While on Earth, it becomes difficult to understand how different humans experience the odor of anything, even food. The researchers employed a virtual reality (VR) system to address this.
Research has led to the development of a VR setup.
Further researchers used virtual reality to transport participants to an International Space Station-like setting. Participants experience this setting in the same way as an astronaut would. This facilitates understanding of the spaceship culture. 54 participants were involved in the study by RMIT University researchers in Australia.
Which kind of fragrance is easier to find?
A combination of molecules with various chemical structures makes up fragrance. It cannot be seen, but when it comes into touch with the nose’s receptors, it may be felt. Certain odors seem stronger in environments like space, according to studies. Sweet-smelling molecules are more appealing to feel.
The scents of almond and vanilla, which are sweet and suggestive of cherries, became stronger than usual. On the other hand, there was no difference in how the lemon aroma was experienced.
Conclusion – Is this knowledge limited to use in space only?
Designing space food is possible with this knowledge. A possible use for sweet aromas would be as appealing taste enhancers. We may also make meals more appealing and encourage astronauts to eat more by improving the fragrance of the food. These ideas may also benefit individuals who are restricted to living spaces on Earth, such crews of submarines, military personnel, and residents of nursing facilities.
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