It is difficult for an average person to stay in a submarine for more than 90 days due to the extreme conditions.
The Differences Between Submarine and Space Environments
While both the environments inside submarines and in space are relatively isolated, enclosed, and harsh, their characteristics and challenges are fundamentally different.
In general, it is hard to stay in a submarine for more than three months, but in space, humans can remain for six months or even longer. This is due to the distinct characteristics of the submarine environment compared to that of space, each with its own challenges and limitations.
The characteristics and challenges of submarines and space are fundamentally different. (Illustrative photo).
Nuclear-powered submarines typically store enough food supplies for 90 days, allowing them to remain underwater for three months. In contrast, diesel-powered submarines have limited submerged time of only a few days before they must surface and use a snorkel to intake air for their diesel engines.
Inside a submarine, individuals face numerous challenges and difficulties. First and foremost, the air inside the submarine is scarce and can even be toxic.
Since submarines operate in deep waters, where the depth often exceeds several hundred meters, the water pressure is extremely high. Without special measures, the air inside the submarine would be compressed into a very dense mass, making it difficult for humans to breathe normally.
A crew member working inside a submarine.
The space inside a submarine is very limited, and individuals often have to work, live, and rest in a cramped environment. Unlike in space, where one can view beautiful scenes through a spacecraft window, submarines are not equipped with windows or have very few, and looking outside only reveals the dark ocean floor. Submarines only have periscopes for external visibility, which can only be used near the surface.
In this scenario, people in submarines are prone to fatigue and psychological stress, leading to various uncomfortable physical symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and chest tightness. Oxygen and water supplies in submarines are very limited, and conservation measures must be implemented to ensure adequate reserves; otherwise, this could endanger the entire crew.
Compared to the submarine environment, the space environment poses greater physical challenges for humans. In space, individuals face numerous risks and limitations, such as high radiation, gravity imbalance, and harsh environmental conditions.
People in submarines can easily become fatigued and stressed if they stay too long.
Radiation in space is very strong and can cause serious harm to the human body. Without an atmosphere in space to block high-energy particles, astronauts must wear special space suits to protect themselves.
Even with space suits, astronauts still face the risk of radiation injury, which can lead to long-term health issues.
The gravitational imbalance in the space environment also significantly affects the body. Without the effect of gravity, astronauts lose their sense of balance in space, and their bodies cannot withstand their own gravitational force.
As a result, astronauts must exercise regularly to maintain their muscle and bone health; otherwise, their bodies will gradually lose the ability to respond to gravity, leading to the degeneration of organ functions and a decline in physical capabilities.
Astronauts must exercise regularly to maintain muscle and bone health. (Illustrative photo).
The air and water in space are also very limited, and conservation measures must be taken to keep supplies adequate. Unlike submarines, water, oxygen, and food in space must be brought from Earth, making their supply chain very fragile. If there is an issue in the supply chain, astronauts face serious immediate dangers.
Space flights often require airtight enclosures for extended periods, leaving astronauts without fresh air. This can increase the psychological stress of astronauts, leading to emotional issues such as depression and anxiety.
Similarities Between Submarines and Space
While submarines and space environments have many differences, they also share several similarities. Firstly, both submarines and space are relatively enclosed and isolated environments.
Crew members and astronauts must work, rest, and live in relatively small spaces. In this case, individuals are prone to fatigue, psychological stress, and various uncomfortable physical symptoms.
Both submarines and space require special technology and equipment to ensure their normal operation. Submarines need specialized hulls, diving equipment, and breathing apparatus, while spacecraft require special space suits, oxygen systems, and high-tech control systems.
Submarines and space are relatively enclosed and isolated environments.
Both submarines and space demand high levels of cooperation and discipline from crew members and astronauts to successfully complete their missions. In these high-pressure environments, individuals must perform their tasks seriously and responsibly to ensure the safety of the entire team and smoothly complete the mission.
However, the crew of a submarine in the deep sea faces more difficulties, as their environment is harsher, but the living space for the crew is more limited. Additionally, they also have no means to observe the outside world, making them more susceptible to psychological impacts, which is why astronauts can stay in space longer than submarine crews.
