Why is weightlessness a problem? We've
had astronauts in space before, and zero-gravity environments have
been discovered to impose a number of physical problems, affecting
cardiovascular functions, bone density, neurological activity, and
other physiological systems. There are other debilitating effects as
well, including muscular atrophy and balance disorders. Astronauts
that have lived in space for weeks have suffered calcium
deficiencies, which results in weakened bones that are easily broken
if the astronaut bumps into something or falls. A fall is more likely
on earth, too, because of the lower muscle mass experienced from life
in space. Living in a zero-g environment can also initially cause
nausea and disorientation, and can adversely affect astronaut
performance and jeopardize mission goals. A famous incident occurred
during the Apollo 9 mission in 1969. Rusty Schweickart was unable to
perform a planned spacewalk because of his nausea. If he had vomited
while in his spacesuit, imagine the problems of the fluid spreading
through his helmet, obscuring vision and possibly interfering with
the breathing apparatus.
As seven alien races struggle to co-exist in an uneasy alliance, the Inter-Stellar Union sends Union Guard agents on missions to preserve the crucial balance. These specialized operatives must do what regional security cannot, dealing with smugglers, pirates, terrorists, and even greater challenges in order to bring stability to a universe that needs it desperately. Without the Union Guard, the races will not be prepared to face a looming alien threat they can only hope to defeat together.
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