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NASA's Contingency Plan for Astronaut Deaths in Space

1/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

NASA has a solemn plan for handling astronaut deaths in the vastness of space. Chris Hadfield reveals that to prevent decomposition, bodies are kept in pressurized suits. While options include returning remains to Earth or jettisoning them—an act against UN agreements—on the Moon, the harsh environment allows for bodies to be left or buried, minimizing decay.

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Story summary

NASA has a solemn plan for handling astronaut deaths in the vastness of space. Chris Hadfield reveals that to prevent decomposition, bodies are kept in pressurized suits. While options include returning remains to Earth or jettisoning them—an act against UN agreements—on the Moon, the harsh environment allows for bodies to be left or buried, minimizing decay.