In a recent study, researchers have identified a new and unexpected hazard of space exploration: chemical contamination. As part of their mission to study the effects of long-term spaceflight on astronauts, the researchers monitored the air quality of the International Space Station (ISS) over the course of two years. To their surprise, they found that the air aboard the ISS was contaminated with a variety of potentially hazardous chemicals. These chemicals, which include compounds found in solvents, paints, and plastics, have the potential to cause long-term health problems for astronauts. The researchers are now investigating the source of these contaminants, as well as the potential health effects that they may have on the astronauts.

Read Full Article Here

source: Phys.org