Schneier on Security

quail eggs in space • May 7, 2011 9:08 AM

In addition to microgravity, the space environment includes solar and cosmic radiation, potential toxicological exposure, severe electromagnetic fields, and variations in pressure and temperature. All factors need to be combined in controlled scientific experiments.

NASA has been sending embryos into space for 25 years. Considering the logistic constraints on life sciences experiments in space, I wonder about the relevance of squid to determining whether humans can be sustained on long-duration space missions. Is NASA planning to colonize the cosmos with giant squid? Will astronauts bring heavy tanks of water to house the squid and eat calamari on the way to their destination?

:-)