How long can you survive in space (vacuum) without pressure suit?

In summary, the conversation discusses the effects of transitioning from an environment with room temperature and atmospheric pressure to the vacuum of space. The temperature in space is technically undefined, but is generally accepted to be very low due to background radiation. Breathing and pressure issues are the main concerns when it comes to survival in space. The conversation also mentions resources for further information on the topic.
  • #1
LennoxLewis
129
1
I know that formally, space is not a vacuum due to quantum fluctuations and what not, but let's neglect those for the moment. Let's say you go from an environment at room temperature and atmospheric pressure to space rather quickly.

How would it feel to the bare skin? Background radiation says the space' temperature is only a few Kelvin, but since it's (almost) empty, you could say its temperature is undefined... hence... how would it feel? If we assume this was the only problem in survival, how long would it take to cool down?


Of course, breathing is the biggest problem. If you hold your breath, organs will explode due to the pressure difference, and you'll encounter the same problem with a scuba diving breathing mask, no matter what mixture (?).

So, the only option is to immediately exhale. Would pressure problems still destroy you or could you enjoy 10-20 seconds in space before passing out from hypoxia?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #3
Ah, sorry for flooding the board. I'll do a search first next time. Admin can delete this thread. Thanks.
 

1. How long can the human body survive in space without a pressure suit?

The human body can only survive a few seconds in the vacuum of space without a pressure suit. This is because the vacuum of space creates a lack of pressure that causes the gases in our body to expand and rupture our blood vessels, which can lead to death.

2. Can you survive longer in space with a pressure suit?

Yes, a pressure suit is designed to protect the body from the vacuum of space. It provides a pressurized environment for the body, allowing it to survive for a longer period of time in space.

3. What happens to the body when exposed to the vacuum of space?

When exposed to the vacuum of space, the body will experience rapid decompression. This can result in the expansion of gases in the body, leading to tissue damage, loss of consciousness, and ultimately death.

4. Are there any known cases of humans surviving in space without a pressure suit?

No, there are no known cases of humans surviving in the vacuum of space without a pressure suit. However, there have been instances where astronauts have survived in space due to their suits malfunctioning, but they were quickly rescued or able to return to a pressurized environment.

5. How long can an astronaut survive in space with a functioning pressure suit?

An astronaut can survive for an extended period of time in space with a functioning pressure suit. NASA estimates that a person in a pressure suit could survive for up to 30 minutes in the vacuum of space before experiencing serious effects. However, this can vary depending on the individual's health and the level of protection provided by the suit.

Similar threads

Replies
26
Views
1K
Replies
27
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
5K
Replies
18
Views
2K
  • Thermodynamics
Replies
5
Views
784
Replies
1
Views
740
  • General Engineering
Replies
15
Views
535
Replies
7
Views
804
Back
Top