In another example of science fiction predicting new technology, a company called SpaceWorks is developing a method of cooling a human body such that it can survive long space trips in a hibernation-like state. Animal testing is to start next year with plans for human testing in space and on the International Space Station in the near future.

This is pretty cool as it is similar to a method that I describe in my sci-fi novel, The Messenger Within, where, to prevent atrophy, Astronauts are hooked up to a device that causes the muscles to shiver (when muscles aren’t used they weaken and shrink, which would be a big problem for people in stasis for long periods of time.) As well, SpaceWorks expects that the astronauts will pop in and out of hibernation/stasis as they take turns monitoring the ship, which is exactly what happens in my story.

I’m not claiming any brilliance here. And certainly the ideas are not unique to my novel—these concepts have been around in sci-fi novels and movies for a long time.

But it is nice to think that once again science fiction got it right.

All the best,

PG.

Postscript:

Why hibernate during space travel?

There are two main reasons:

1. The mission will require less food, water, air and waste disposal due to the body’s much lower metabolism.
2. Hibernation will reduce psychological and interpersonal stress caused by boredom and long periods in a tight space with a small number of people.