Can you get an erection in space?

After a reading a headline regarding bone degeneration in the ISS (“Growing bone in space,” it read), our 12-year-old minds went to the only place they could: boners.

Which led us to ask the question: Can you get a boner in space?

Initially the answer seemed obvious: Yes, what would keep you from having one?

But the real answer is: We’re not really sure.

According to John Millis, an assistant professor of physics and astronomy at Anderson University, NASA may have data on this, but have chosen not to disclose it. It’s reasonable to speculate, though, that it’s either not possible or very difficult to achieve an erection in space due to zero gravity conditions. Astronauts experience a decrease in blood pressure as a result of this, which means less blood flowing through the body; and seeing that an erection relies heavily upon blood flow (Thanks, Viagra commercials), it’s safe to assume that male sexual function may be hindered in space.

Have astronauts had sex in space, though?

As a rule, NASA’s astronauts are not allowed to indulge in any funny business, even if they’re married. The only time they’ve sent a married couple into space was in 1991, when they sent training camp newlyweds Jan Davis and Mark Lee into orbit and missed out on, perhaps, the greatest opportunity for reality television ever. (Happily Ever NASA, anyone?)

The only record we have of their physical, galactic relationship is this very handsy picture–first row, far left. Go, Mark, Go.

There are rumors of other astronauts committing acts of stellar lewdness, but that’s all they currently are: rumors.

Other reasons why space sex might not be possible/desirable

Being in space can also induce “spacesickness”, which can lead to nausea, which is everyone’s second excuse behind “I have a headache,” when they don’t want to do it. Because, well, it sucks.

There are also issues of heat (which, in space, causes excessive sweating) and lack of resistance. You do the math.

All we know is: Someone needs to figure out this space-sex conundrum before we start trying to populate other planets.

And, no, we don’t mean you, *NSYNC.

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