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Why These 6 Items Are Not Allowed in Space

Are there chairs in space? From salt and pepper to a simple pen, find out why certain objects simply aren't allowed in space.

By Donna Sarkar
Jan 2, 2024 2:00 PM
astronaut-drinking-on-moon
(Credit: Supamotionstock.com/Shutterstock)

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At one time, traveling to space seemed impossible. But now, hundreds of people have left Earth’s atmosphere and drifted in outer space. While there is still much to explore, thanks to researchers and astronauts, some cosmic mysteries have been uncovered. 

For example, we know that one of the many differences between Earth and outer space is the amount of gravity. According to NASA, there is only a small amount of gravity in space, unlike Earth, where the force consistently pulls us downward and allows our feet to stay planted on the ground. However, the low gravity in space makes both people and objects more prone to floating.

The more we’ve come to learn about gravity in space, the more we know about which objects don’t belong in space. Thanks to the low gravity in outer space, these items have been scratched from the eligibility list for space travel, and some may surprise you.  

1. Are Chairs Allowed in Space?

(Credit: Supamotionstock.com/Shutterstock)
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