How Do Astronauts Cut Hair Whilst In Space?
How Do Astronauts Cut Hair Whilst In Space?
Astronauts in space are held to high grooming standards, which includes regular haircuts while on the space station. Prior to launch, they must have a haircut and subsequently, every two weeks in space, to prevent their hair from becoming too long and interfering with their work. However, haircuts in space pose unique challenges due to the absence of gravity, requiring the use of electric clippers. Astronauts must exercise their ingenuity to manage their hair effectively while in space.
Performing a haircut without gravity is considerably more difficult than one might expect, and the prospect of being encircled by drifting hair clippings is unappealing. Despite this, astronauts do their best to cut each other's hair. However, the outcome of these haircuts may be practical in keeping their hair away from their faces, but they are not necessarily aesthetically impressive.
Now what about ladies hair cuts in space?
Although they float in microgravity, orbiting 267 miles above Earth, astronauts still want to appear presentable. In a video shared by the European Space Agency, Samantha Cristoforetti, who is originally from Italy, is observed going to 'Chez Terry' - an improvised hair salon on the International Space Station. While her coworker Terry Virts styles her hair, cosmonaut Anton Shkaplerov can be seen trailing the scissors with a vacuum to collect the trimmings.
What about a wash and blowdry in space?
To wash their hair in space, astronauts use a no-rinse shampoo and vigorously rub their hair and scalp with a towel. They then wipe their hair clean with a separate towel. The reason for using a vacuum during haircuts is to prevent loose hairs from floating around the station, which can be hazardous if inhaled or cause eye irritation. Additionally, loose hair can clog filters and disrupt air circulation and filtration.
Shaving in space is similar to on Earth, but astronauts must be careful not to let stray whiskers float away. They can use foam or an electric razor, with many preferring the latter due to its water-free operation and automatic hair collection. Interestingly, water from hair and shaving activities is not wasted in space, as it is collected by the air conditioning system and transformed into condensate, which can then be used as drinking water.
