"Space Travel Linked to Erectile Dysfunction in Astronauts"

New NASA-funded research suggests that exposure to high levels of galactic cosmic radiation and microgravity in space can impair vascular tissues, leading to erectile dysfunction. The study, conducted on rats, found that even low exposure to cosmic rays resulted in an increase in oxidative stress, which can damage cells, proteins, and DNA. The negative impacts of cosmic radiation were long-lasting, but treatment with specific antioxidants showed potential for improving tissue function. With manned missions to outer space planned for the future, the study highlights the importance of monitoring sexual health in astronauts upon their return to Earth.