If a child is born in space, there could be significant physiological challenges.
Potential Effects of Space Birth
Given the information available, a child born and raised in space could face several difficulties.
Physiological Adaptations
- Fluid Distribution: Similar to astronauts, the child's bodily fluids might shift upwards, leading to a puffy face. This is due to the lack of gravity pulling fluids downwards.
- Musculoskeletal Development: The child's muscles and bones might not develop properly in the absence of Earth's gravity. They may not be able to walk, stand, or even breathe normally on Earth later in life.
Long-Term Habitability
The most significant consequence is that a child born and raised in space might never be able to live on Earth due to these physiological adaptations. Their bodies could be so accustomed to the conditions of space that they are unable to function correctly under Earth's gravity.