20/09/2023
The enigmatic aroma of space has long intrigued astronauts, sparking playful debates over its nature. Descriptions have ranged from seared steak and hot metal to welding fumes and even barbecue! 🥩🔥
Some speculate that this peculiar scent may emanate from the spacesuit itself, with certain components "off-gassing" after exposure to space's vacuum and extreme temperatures. However, in my perspective, the fragrance of space resembles that of static electricity. Picture this: when you remove a shirt or sweater, and you're met with a powerful static discharge, it emits a distinctive burnt metallic odor. ⚡👕
In reality, what you're likely smelling with static electricity is ozone. Ozone can naturally form when high-energy ultraviolet rays, like those from the sun, lightning, or static electricity, interact with oxygen molecules, splitting them into individual oxygen atoms. One of these liberated oxygen atoms then combines with another oxygen molecule to create O3, which is ozone. 🌅🌩️
Here's the twist – while ozone exists in the lower stratosphere, it's not found at 400 km above Earth's surface. So, why do we detect its scent in space? Space harbors atomic oxygen. In fact, the sparse atmosphere surrounding the International Space Station consists of approximately 90% atomic oxygen. It's conceivable that atomic oxygen infiltrates the airlock during space exposure and, upon re-pressurization, reacts with oxygen molecules from the space station's atmosphere, generating the distinctive aroma of ozone. 🚀🪶
Unraveling the mysteries of space, one scent at a time! 🌠🪐
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