Microgravity Microbrew
Beer is among humanity's earliest of inventions. Predating writing, the fermented beverage traces its roots back to the dawn of agriculture more than 10,000 years ago. Throughout human history, no matter where people go they bring beer with them. Thus, it is only a matter of time until beer becomes a fixture of life in space. When that day comes, we know we'll be in space to stay. No research has been done on the effects of alcohol on people in a microgravity environment. For example, no one knows how alcohol absorption and metabolism differ in space compared with Earth. Well, that's about to change. I am proud to announce that the 4-Pines Brewing Company and Saber Astronautics Australia (through a joint venture called Vostok Pty Ltd ) have hired Astronauts4Hire (A4H) to test the first beer meant for consumption in space. It is intended to meet anticipated demand from the upcoming space tourism market. Vostok Space Beer. Image Credit: Alex R. Green Rather