Part 1 - SexTech in Space - The relevance of sexual wellness products for space.pdf - Simon Doube

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Sex Tech in Space? The relevance of sexual wellness and intimate products for space agencies and the public SEPTEMBER 2021 EROBOTICS By Ψ Simon Dubé Research Maria Santaguida Consulting Dave Anctil 1 Please note that this is a copy of the first part of the report, comprising about half of its total length and focusing on establishing the relevancy of sextech and sexuality in space. We-Vibe will release the rest of the report in upcoming months as the sexual wellness brand steps up efforts to bring awareness about sexuality in space. Please check with We-Vibe at press@we-vibe.com for further details. Table of Contents Introduction ........................................................................................................... 3 I. To the Final Frontier ............................................................................... 3 II. Humans Living in Space: A Paradigm Shift ............................................. 4 1. Sex in Space: General Discussion........................................................................ 7 1.1. Why Sex and Coupling in Space Are Not Easy…………………………………….7 1.2. Sex Tech and Masturbation: A More Practical Proposition ................. 8 1.3. Masturbation as Self-Care .................................................................. 9 2. The Challenge of Promoting Wellness Through Technology-Mediated (Solitary and Partnered) Sexuality ............................................................................................ 12 2.1. The Benefits of Sexuality .................................................................. 13 2.2. Technological Possibilities: From Sex Toys to Erobots ...................... 15 2.3. The Challenges ................................................................................. 16 Contributors ........................................................................................................ 17 References ........................................................................................................... 18 2 Sex Tech in Space? The relevance of sexual wellness and intimate products for space agencies and the public Introduction We are entering into a new age of space travel and exploration: the age of spatial colonization. Our satellite, the Moon, and our neighbouring planet, Mars, are humanity’s next frontiers. Beyond the International Space Station (ISS), several missions are currently in the pipelines of national space agencies and spatial private companies, engaging an exponential global race for investments and innovation. I. To the Final Frontier Missions to Mars. On July 30th, 2020, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) launched the Mars rover mission, the first phase of its Mars Exploration Program (NASA Science – Mars Exploration Program, 2020). Conjoint exploratory missions to Mars have also been launched this year by the United Arab Emirates (Hope orbiter; Bartels, 2020) and China (Tianwen-1; Wall, 2020). The three missions are set to arrive in February 2021. They bring with them a plethora of satellites, robots, and drones to explore further the red planet, and will search for extraterrestrial life and bring back precious information for future colonization (Wan, Wang, Li, & Wei, 2020). These three missions will soon be followed by ExoMars, the conjoint astrobiology program of the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Russian space agency, Roscosmos (ESA, 2020). Missions to the Moon. NASA is also currently working on the Artemis program. This massive endeavour will, amongst many other things, land women and men on the Moon by 2024. The first phase of the program is set to begin in 2021, while the second phase is anticipated to begin in 2022 or 2023 (NASA, 2019c). The Chinese Lunar Exploration program has also been conducting missions to the Moon since 2007, placing orbiters and landing rovers on the moon surface. The last phase of the program entails at least three missions, which will land and install many sophisticated and automated machines on the Moon, between 2023 and 2027 (Yongchun, Ziyuan, Chunlai, Jianzhong, & Yongliao, 2008). The long-term goal of the Chinese government is to establish a fully functioning, permanent research station on the Moon by 2030. Many more countries are currently embarking in the race to the Moon, like Japan and India (Bartels, 2019). Rise of the Spatial Private Sector. Private space companies are also profoundly transforming the economy of space exploration, bringing huge capital from investors, 3 increasing competition, and driving down the costs. This is a game changer. On May 31st, 2020, SpaceX achieved a major milestone by successfully launching astronauts to the ISS (Chang, 2020). The American giant Boeing is developing its Crew Space Transportation (CST)-100 Starliner spacecraft and aims to bring both astronauts and civilians at the ISS by 2021 (Boeing, 2020). Companies like Blue Origin (Blue Origin, 2020) and Virgin Galactic (Virgin Galactic, 2020) are also building commercial, suborbital missions, designed for space tourism and short distance spaceflight. Many other companies, big and small, are entering the new markets and promises of space exploration (Reason Foundation, 2019). II. Humans Living in Space: A Paradigm Shift While space exploration is set to experience an incredible boost in investments, innovation, and opportunities, its outlook partly remains stuck in the 20th century. Space exploration is a prisoner of an old paradigm set forth by the dominating fields of engineering, physics, and mathematics. That is, since the 1950s, space exploration has been mostly Rocket Science and Astrophysics. The human side of our expansion into the solar system has been, to say the least, comparatively neglected by current trends of spatial Research & Development (R&D). In the very near future of space travel, exploration, and colonization, the fields of life and social sciences will become extremely important. That is, because while space agencies and companies know a whole lot about how to successfully launch spacecrafts, satellites, probes, and robots, and even build fully functioning habitats in space (and eventually on the Moon and Mars), they know a whole lot less about living in space. In other words, the work of engineers, physicists, and mathematicians taught us how to reach space and survive in space. But, the next chapter of space exploration will ask much more from diversified fields, researchers, and sectors of activities (Noonan, 1998/2001). We will have to learn how to live, prosper, and be happy in space. Take some of the harshest known environments on our planet (i.e., our only available analogy). It took centuries for indigenous dwellers of the Saharan desert and the Arctic freezing plains to learn how to master and live happy lives in these extreme climates and relative isolation. While there are living habitats in Antarctica, they are occupied by trained scientists, deployed for specific and limited missions (NASA, 2015); there are no long-term living habitats in the depths of the oceans. Living in space for extended periods of time is an even more difficult endeavour than the precedents. What we know about the biopsychosocial effects of the extreme conditions found on Earth can teach us 4 something about the challenges of colonizing space: people, even trained ones, will remain people with basic human needs and desires. No longer confined to science-fiction (Asimov, 1973), space colonization and long-term travel entails a paradigm shift. Specifically, to live healthily in space, it takes a lot more than protection from radiation, clean breathing, drinking, eating, and adapting to micro- or hyper-gravity. It entails learning how to fulfill the wide range of basic human needs and desires, or the the full spectrum of what we call human well-being. And, of course, sexuality is one of the central conditions of this human well-being. Humans have been visiting space since 1961. During the 60-year span of crewed space exploration, the topic of sexuality in space has been “woefully under-examined,” since the vast majority of “manned missions to space have not been long enough in duration to push NASA to seriously address the question” (Oberhaus, 2015a). While the sexuality of astronauts during missions remains taboo, many people are starting to question the elephant in the room. In 2015, Prof. Paul Root Wolpe, a senior bioethicist at NASA, formulated the issue publicly during an interview for Vice: “I do not know if NASA has an official policy on sex in space, [but] there will be a time when NASA needs to make some policies or understandings about those kinds of relationships. There is a point where the length of time [on a mission] becomes part of the question of whether or not it's fair to deprive people of this aspect of being human. I'm just not sure it's time yet.” Quoted by Oberhaus, D. (2015a): “Let's Talk About Sex in Space” Our 2020 paper “Sex in space: Could technology meet astronauts’ intimate needs?” argued that the refusal to consider the importance of sexuality is irresponsible. We discovered that, national space agencies and private companies are still not satisfyingly addressing human sexuality in space exploration and colonization (Dubé & Anctil, 2020). We argued that this position prevents research from examining basic questions about sexual health and well-being in space, such as: how do we deal with hygiene and the messiness of human sex in zero-gravity? How do we maintain the psychological well- being of crews? And, is imposed sexual abstinence a reasonable solution, based on scientific evidence? Moreover, based on our previous and current research in sexuality and technology, we believe that change is coming from the social sciences and the private 5 sector, especially from the sex technology (or sex tech) industry. That is, because these sectors have been facing many similar challenges concerning the acceptance, taboos, and stigma of intimate pleasure and wellness. In light of the imminent long-duration space missions, the main objective of the present report is to help build a case for the study of sexuality and its possible technological facilitation in space travel, exploration, and colonization. To do so, this report provides key elements for the space agencies, the private sector (e.g., sex tech and wellness industry), and the public to grasp the relevance of using sexual wellness and intimate products for humans living in space. Specifically, the first section of this report introduces the general topic of sexuality in space along with some of its practical challenges. It also emphasizes the pragmatism of solitary sexual activities (i.e., masturbation) for astronauts along with some of its main constraints (e.g., privacy and hygiene). Following that, the second section highlights the benefits of (solitary and partnered) sexuality in adapting to spatial environments, suggests several technological possibilities that could be scientifically examined, and underline some of the challenges in accepting technology- mediated sexuality (e.g., sexuality and technology related stigma). The third and final section argues that space exploration should follow a progressive agenda – i.e., an agenda which is inclusive of all sexes/genders and sexualities. More precisely, while we recognize that some progress has been made over time, we argue that it is far from being enough and that there is still enormous room for growth and improvements. We ultimately conclude that we are still deeply in need of space programs that truly prioritize sexual health, well-being, inclusivity, and diversity. 6 1. Sex in Space: General Discussion Space is highly dangerous, hazardous, and deadly environment for humans (Jennings & Santy, 1990; Mirsha & Luderer, 2019; Santy & Jennings, 1992; Sullivan, 1996). While some people will continue to go into space for only a few weeks or months, others will increasingly have to live there for longer periods of time. If current predictions hold true, there will be thousands of space travellers and workers by 2040, to the extent that some may eventually live for years in habitats on the Moon or Mars. One way or the other, these people will definitely aim to fulfill their intimate and sexual needs through solitary or partnered sexual activities (e.g., masturbation, interhuman erotic stimulation, and sexual intercourse). Travelling and living in space for prolonged periods require the honesty of recognizing these needs. While private companies are already developing plans for space tourism, hotels, and (literal) honeymoon plans (e.g., Virgin Galactic), we must understand better the living conditions of space, and especially the conditions of sex in space. The living conditions of space are mainly studied by the fields of Bioastronautics, Astronautical Hygiene, and Space Medicine (Cain, 2011; Marcviacq & Bessone, 2009). In this section, we do not summarize these complex technical fields, but instead give some key elements to understand the basics about environmental conditions of sex and masturbation in space. 1.1. Why Sex and Coupling in Space Are Not Easy Space can affect the sexual and reproductive functions of humans through its radiations, psychological and physical stress, sleep disruption, potential exposure to toxic chemicals, and change in gravity (e.g., micro- and hyper-gravity; Jennings & Santy, 1990; Levin, 1989; Mirsha & Luderer, 2019; Ronca et al., 2014; Santy & Jennings, 1992; Sullivan, 1996; Tou, Ronca, Grindeland, & Wade, 2002). Gravity, in particular, is one of the most important differences between Earth and the spatial environment. Without sufficient gravity, bodies are not attracted to each other. Contact between lovers requires a constant effort, causing very limited frictions, thus diminishing possibilities of pleasure for couples having sex. That is, of course, on top of the numerous physiological effects of reduced gravity, which can also affect sexual functioning (e.g., altered fluid, cardiovascular changes, decreased bone density, and muscle atrophy; Jennings & Santy, 1990; Mirsha & Luderer, 2019; Santy & Jennings, 1992; Sullivan, 1996; Tou, Ronca, Grindeland, & Wade, 2002) Zero-gravity (and microgravity) is a very significant condition to understand the difficulty of space life. De-adapting from a full-g and re-adapting to a 0-g environment is a difficult process; astronauts must learn to minimize movement and work in a full three- 7 dimensional environment. By comparison, having sex on the Moon (0.20-g) or on Mars (0.38-g) would instead resemble having sex in a pool, reducing body mass and all physical effort (Stine, 1997). Gravity is very important for all animals: while the conditions of life have changed a lot during the history of life on earth, the one constant of our evolution has been gravity. It never changed! Hypothetical artificial gravity (or rotational gravity) is not for tomorrow. As of now, there is no known efficient gravity surrogate. 1.2. Sex Tech and Masturbation: A More Practical Proposition Masturbation is a far more practical solution for Masturbation sexual gratification in space. Mariners, soldiers, and army commanders have known for centuries The self-determined that masturbation is important for the morale of stimulation/pleasuring of oneself crews and troops. Military submarine crews or a partner through touching of deployed for months undersea are allowed to the body and/or genitals masturbate in cramped spaces, with little intimacy. (Bowman, 2017) Nowadays, military personnel have the right to bring and use sex toys (e.g., dildos, vibrators, and fleshlights) and stimulation materials (e.g., pornography) with them when they are deployed in long missions to insure their “personal well-being.” Spouses and friends are also allowed to send gifts to help their loved ones to endure the lack of intimacy (Lin, 2020; Smith, 2019). On the topic of sexual needs and isolation, Vice reported in 2015 that: “Informal field tests on Earth seem to buoy these results: between 1989 and 2006, Australian researchers documented seven pregnancies at Antarctic research stations, environments that are frequently used as analogues for space due to their isolation and moderate stress levels. This staggering number suggests that dangerous environs alone aren't significant deterrents for their horny inhabitants. NASA is well aware of this.” (Oberhaus, 2015a) Gravity aside, the environmental and social conditions of masturbation in spatial capsules and crafts are remarkably similar to those of military bases, warships, nuclear submarines, and isolated research stations, with the two following provisions: Privacy. Sexual privacy is challenging in the claustrophobic environment of space stations, ships, and modules, but not much more than in submarines. Space, however, is 8 silent; habitats are very small; machines and other astronauts are the only things making sound (Marcviacq & Bessone, 2009). While any astronaut can easily masturbate discretely (out of sight) in her sleep shelter/sack, the natural noise of self-stimulation and the use of masturbation devices can be heard by the rest of the crew. Thus, sex toys designed for space should be especially discreet and respectful of the intimacy-etiquette prescribed by the fact of living in relatively silent environments with limited space. Hygiene. The near-absence of gravity and the frailty of the artificial ecosystems constitute a major hygiene concern (Cain, 2011). Personal hygiene is very important when groups of individuals must live and work in close proximity, especially for prolonged periods. In space stations as well as in future long-range spacecrafts voyaging to Mars, severe rules of personal and environmental hygiene will protect the crews and systems from microorganisms, viruses, and bad odours. Astronauts are provided with a personal hygiene (PH) kit containing objects such as razors, toothbrush, comb, nail clippers, etc. (Stine, 1997: 188-191). Importantly, bodily fluids (e.g., mucus, sweat, and ejaculation) must absolutely be contained to prevent them from flying around. These conditions also impose a rigid code of hygiene and resources management on astronauts, to protect the fragile (future) environment and minimize the waste of limited resources (e.g., paper, condoms, etc.). Thus, intimate products designed for space should be especially easy to clean and maintain, as well as produce little to no waste. 1.3. Masturbation as Self-Care The daily life self-care and needs of astronauts is a regular topic of discussion in the media. Astronauts are often asked how they live on a day-to-day basis in the exotic and dangerous environment of the ISS. Space agencies have released complete videos talking about the issues of excreting and cleaning (Canadian Space Agency (CSA), 2019). New space travelers must prepare adequately for months on how-to-live-in-space. In other words, astronautical dietetics and hygiene are an integral part of their training (Cain, 2011). The reason is simple: basic needs and everyday behaviours on Earth – such as, drinking, eating, showering, washing clothes, and using the toilet – must be reprogrammed to integrate the delicate systems of space facilities. At NASA, research and training on food and hygiene is part of the larger Crew Systems component (Connors, Harrison, & Summit, 1994). Indeed, long duration missions require the integration of these vital human variables into the technical operations of the many subsystems that maintain the whole functioning of space habitats (NASA, 2020c). The objective of Crew Systems research and training is to integrate, in a 9 harmonious manner, personal human needs and preferences with the functioning of objective electronic and mechanical systems: coordinating the functioning of basic human hygiene with that of machines (Marcviacq & Bessone, 2009). In a way, the whole (holistic) set of Crew Systems thus forms a “cybernetic organism,” in which the human and machine parts are in a constant relationship of mutual dependence (Connors et al., 1994). Let us take two important examples: bodily waste and self-care. Defecating and urinating in space require special training and adaptation. Astronauts must learn to manage the need to dispose of their body waste according to a precise, fixed schedule. They must also learn not to urinate while defecating, since urine must be recycled by the ECLSS (Environmental Control and Life Support System), while feces are preserved in confined, sealed bags. NASA's Orion program has recently developed the Universal Waste Management System (UWMS), which is currently being tested in the ISS: spatial toilets currently recycle 90% of water-based liquids, but “NASA’s goal is to reach 98% recycling rates before the first human missions aboard a proposed Mars transport vehicle” (NASA, 2020a). The same goes for showering, shaving, clipping nails, or cutting hairs. Astronauts are given a certain amount of leeway to master and personalize all the appropriate grooming techniques (CSA, 2019). But ultimately, they must learn to do these things as precisely as possible, in an extremely confined space, and using as little water and disposable items as possible (CSA, 2019). Since its first inhabitants arrived in 2000, the ISS has provided us with the necessary experience and data to build strong research in Crew Systems and an adequate training for personalized astronautical hygiene and self-care. Yet, we could find no research and no training applied to sex or masturbation in space. This suggest that space agencies are either not considering this as a possibility; wishing they will not have to deal with this; or assuming that astronauts will know instinctively how to safely and hygienically engage in intimate interactions or masturbate in space. None of these three positions is tenable, or responsible, in light of the present and future transformations in the nature and duration of space missions, as well as the importance of sexuality in human life. Thus, similarly to how (future) astronauts must re-learn how to defecate, urinate, clip their nails, cut their hair, and wash, space agencies should explore how to facilitate masturbation as part of their Crew Systems component. In sum, pertaining to living conditions in the spatial environment, intimate space products could easily be included in the PH kits of space travellers. Yet, designers should be mindful 10 that these products need to conform to four conditions: 1) they must be practical and small; 2) they must be discreet and produce little to no sound; 3) they must be fully compatible with all artificial life-support systems; and 4) they must be easily cleaned and produce little to no waste. This is crucial if we want to safely and hygienically give astronauts access to intimacy and sexuality, including masturbation, while preserving a respectful dose of privacy between individuals living in confined environments for prolonged periods of time. 11 2. The Challenge of Promoting Wellness Through Technology- Mediated (Solitary and Partnered) Sexuality Space missions – travel, exploration, and colonization – can be stressful, and in many ways, unnatural (Palinkas, 2001; Ronca et al., 2014; Suedfeld & Steel, 2000; Sullivan, 1996; Tou et al.,2002). As previously mentioned, it can entail physical and psychological stress due to confinement, (social) isolation, daily space-adapted life, exposure to radiations or chemicals, sleep disruption, as well as gravitational changes and its related physiological effects (e.g., impacts on the bodily fluids, cardiovascular system, bone density, and muscles) (Connors, Harrison, & Summit, 1994; Jennings & Santy, 1990; Mirsha & Luderer, 2019; Ronca et al., 2014; Santy & Jennings, 1992; Suedfeld & Steel, 2000; Sullivan, 1996; Tou, Ronca, Grindeland, & Wade, 2002). Technology-mediated sexuality, however, has the potential to benefit the health of astronauts, help humans adapt to the spatial environments, and alleviate some of the difficult psychosocial and sexual conditions of space life. Nonetheless, in 2006, the Committee on Review of NASA's Bioastronautics Roadmap (BR), which encompassed the National Academies advising the U.S. federal government (i.e., the National Research Council, Institute of Medicine, Board on Health Sciences Policy, Space Studies Board, and Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board), remarked that the BR did not include any reference to humans sexuality. The committee thus recommended that this major gap be addressed, particularly in the context of prolonged space missions, such as the Mars Exploration Program. Unfortunately, this recommendation was apparently not taken seriously since, nine years later, a report by NASA’s Human Research Program (HRP) still failed to include this central aspect of human life. That is, in 2015, a report by NASA’s HRP compiled data from its many offices and research programs. It identified 32 Human Health and Performance Risks by Space Environment Hazard, only two of which were associated with the psychosocial isolation of astronauts in long-term missions: Adverse Cognitive or Behavioral Conditions and Inadequate Team Performance (NASA – Office of Inspector General, 2015: 4). Still, once more, none of these risks addressed human sexuality and its associated phenomena. Sexual and reproductive health (including pleasure), however, is increasingly recognized as a fundamental human right, due to its central role in our physical, psychological, emotional, and social well-being (World Health Organization, 2015). More to the point, space missions can reduce access to sexuality by 1) reducing the opportunities of (available and compatible) intimate, romantic, or sexual partners and interactions, as well 12 as by 2) heightening the risks associated with interhuman intimacy in hazardous environments (Longnecker & Molins, 2006). These risks may include but are not limited to: sexually transmitted or blood-borne infections, unwanted pregnancies, sexual harassment and assault, issues related to jealousy, sexual competition, interpersonal rejection, breakups, as well as problems associated with power dynamics, perceived inequities, conflict of interests, and favoritism amongst coworkers. Just to name a few. The resulting (in)formal conditions (or politics) of sexual abstinence or celibacy imposed by space missions may affect the morale, (sexual) health, and well-being of astronauts, as well as generate, for instance, (sexual) frustration, stress, anxiety, and depression (e.g., Donnelly, Burgess, Anderson, Davis, & Dillard, 2001; Donnelly & Burgess, 2008; Goel et al., 2014; Miller, Solomon, Bunn, Varni, & Hodge, 2015; Suedfeld & Steel, 2000; Ronca et al., 2014; Warren, 1989). It may further create tensions in dangerous contexts where efficient cooperation and teamwork are crucial to the survival of astronauts, the success of a mission, and our successful – healthy, safe, and fulfilling – life in space (Longnecker & Molins, 2006). These conditions of abstinence can also deter people from contributing to present and future space endeavours. Precisely, the imposed lack of intimacy may lead some people to feel that they are (or could be) missing out on fundamental and desired aspects of human existence by taking part in (prolonged) space missions. To help build a case for the study and potential use of technology-mediated sexuality in space, the following section will summarize some of the physical and psychological benefits of a healthy sexuality. It will then highlight technological possibilities that could facilitate space sexuality and, by extension, its benefits. Finally, it will emphasize the challenges of promoting wellness through technology-mediated sexuality, while simultaneously pointing out several key elements that should help space agencies, decision-makers, and the public understand its importance for our extraterrestrial life. 2.1. The Benefits of Sexuality Whether it be alone or with a partner, safe consensual sex is good for human health and well-being (Brody, 2010; Levin, 2007, Planned Parenthood, 2020). In the context of space missions, more precisely, it can arguably help humans adapt to the spatial environments and its difficult psychosocial and sexual conditions via 1) its health benefits and 2) by normalizing life in space. Indeed, through psychosexual pleasure, physiological arousal, and orgasm, sex has been associated with a wide range of physical and psychological benefits. For instance, solitary and partnered sexual activities can help: 13 • relax, reduce tension or stress, and sleep (Brody, 2006; Lastella, O'Mullan, Paterson, & Reynolds, 2019); • relieve pain (Komisaruk & Whipple, 1995; Levin, 2007); • facilitate (subsequent) sexual functioning and satisfaction (Coleman, 2003); • activate or boost cardiovascular and immune systems (Charnetski & Brennan, 2004; Frappier, Toupin, Levy, Aubertin-Leheudre, & Karelis, 2013); • alleviate headaches and migraines (Hambach, Evers, Summ, Husstedt, & Frese, 2013); • improve self-esteem and body image (Coleman, 2003; Kaestle & Allen, 2011); • and strengthen muscles of the pelvic floor (Brody, 2010). Masturbation, in particular, can act as both a substitute and complement to partnered sex. As a healthy and empowering expression of one’s sexuality, and as an autonomous source of sexual pleasure, masturbation can help people to learn about themselves (e.g., their body, desires, erotic preferences, and agency) and reduce some of the risks associated with interhuman intimacy during space missions, as previously described (Bowman, 2014; Coleman, 2003; Kaestle & Allen, 2011; Levin 2007; Onar, Armstrong, & Graham, 2020; Shapiro, 2008; Shulman & Horne, 2003). In addition to its health benefits, we here argue that sexuality – like leisure times and having fun – can help normalize life in space and make it more tenable. Specifically, in early space missions, astronauts were given too much work without enough recreational time to relax, play, and have fun. Many studies made by army and navy scientists later discovered that giving recreational time increased the well-being and performance of military personnel and astronauts (Stine, 1997: 167). As such, we here argue that, like playing games or enjoying hobbies, solitary and partnered sexuality can help: getting minds off unnatural environment; diminish the effects of stressors and fatigue on the mind and body; enhance sleep and recuperation; and generally improve (or maintain) the health and well-being of those who live in space. More to the point, since safe and healthy sex is generally considered to be a positive and natural part of human life (i.e., beneficial or even essential), enabling it in the context of missions and life in space, we propose, can help make the journey of astronauts more enjoyable, humane, and akin to pleasurable aspects of our life on Earth. We also propose that it can help (potential future) astronauts – travellers, explorers, or settlers – feel that an extraterrestrial life is something worth living. That is, making sure that people living in space for prolonged periods of time have access to sexuality can arguably make them 14 more inclined to participate in space missions, as well as help them build meaningful extraterrestrial lives. In this case, lives that: are compatible with human needs; are perceived as more “normal” (i.e., meaning, similar to typical positive aspects of human life on Earth); and reduce the likelihood of people feeling that they are missing out on important intimate experiences during their time in space. Importantly, to that effect, we propose that technology can facilitate, enhance, and expand the (socio)sexual possibilities of astronauts as they journey to the final frontier. 2.2. Technological Possibilities: From Sex Toys to Erobots Technology provides a wide range of opportunities for solitary or partnered (socio)sexual activities in space, such as: technology-mediated masturbation, remote sex, and human- machine erotic interactions. For instance, astronauts could engage in a variety of interactive, immersive, and/or connected erotic experiences during space missions using combinations of: • sex toys Sex toy • erotic stimuli (e.g., digital pornography) • virtual, augmented, or mixed reality (VR, AR, MR) Any object that is used for • robotics sexual enhancement, • artificial intelligence (AI) stimulation, or pleasure. • haptic equipment (Döring & Pöschl, 2018) • teledildonics Erobot Indeed, technology expands the possibilities of (socio)sexual activities with oneself and others, Any embodied, virtual, or proximally and at a distance (e.g., masturbation and augmented artificial erotic remote sex with humans and/or machines). This includes agent, as well as the but is not limited to solitary and partnered body/genital technology from which it stimulation and complex intimate interactions with necessarily emerges. artificial erotic agents, or erobots (e.g., virtual partners, (Dubé & Anctil, in press) erotic chatbots, and sex/love robots; Dubé & Anctil, in press) – whether that be aboard spaceships, stations, base, or settlements. In other words, we can harness the potential of technology to help give astronauts access to sexuality, and by extension, facilitate its benefits as well as curb some of the issues or suffering related to involuntary abstinence (Dubé & Anctil, 2020). 15 More precisely, for single people, technology can be used to build intimate, romantic, or sexual relationships with individuals in- and outside of the people they work with. In fact, intimate relationships outside coworkers can arguably be more desirable in many situations. For example, when compatible partners are not available or when people prefer not to mix professional and personal lives. In these situations, technology can help connect astronauts with people that are not part of their mission to satisfy their needs for erotic interactions. Additionally, in the event that people do not want to engage in intimate interactions with a coworker, but are still interested in fulfilling their romantic or sexual needs, technology has the potential to provide equipment (e.g., sex toys and AI-powered products for VR, AR, MR, and cyber- or remote sex) or artificial partners, such as erobots, to help mitigate the difficulties associated with solitude or lack of intimacy. Moreover, in the (unavoidable) event of intimate relationships between coworkers, sexual technologies can help reduce some of the risks associated with interhuman intimacy, as previously mentioned. They can also enhance the privacy of intimate interactions. For instance, by using connected sex toys (with(out) MR), astronauts can potentially – safely, discreetly, and hygienically – engage in romantic or sexual activities without having other people knowing about it, while simultaneously avoiding some of the messiness of direct (zero-gravity) interhuman erotic interactions. Notably, the same technologies could also be applied to help couples maintain intimate, romantic, and sexual relationships while a partner is away on a space mission. That is, new sexual technologies can connect – in evermore complex, interactive, and immersive ways – intimate partners at a distance, to facilitate the maintenance of intimacy between people living in space and on Earth, as well as possibly help them overcome some of the hardship related to prolonged long-distanced relationships. Ultimately, in addition to being fun, pleasurable, and healthy, sexual technologies can potentially complement the daily medical exams of astronauts, as well as help monitor their psychological, emotional, and physical health and well-being – including their sexual and reproductive health –, which represents, in itself, valuable data in the context of space travel, exploration, and colonization (Dubé & Anctil, 2020). This is the end of Part 1 of the SexTech in Space Report. The rest of the report will be published in upcoming months. Please check with We-Vibe at press@we-vibe.com for further details. 16 Contributors Simon Dubé, PhD Candidate Concordia Vision Labs | Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology (CSBN) Department of Psychology, Concordia University Research on Sex, Violence, & Personality (RSVP) Lab Department of Psychology, McGill University Contact: simondube.ta@gmail.com Maria Santaguida, PhD Candidate Concordia Vision Labs | Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology (CSBN) Department of Psychology, Concordia University Research on Sex, Violence, & Personality (RSVP) Lab Department of Psychology, McGill University Contact: maria.santaguida@concordia.ca Dave Anctil, PhD Affiliated Researcher | International Observatory on The Societal Impacts of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technology (OBVIA), Laval University Full Professor | Department of Philosophy, Jean-de-Brébeuf College (Montreal) Contact: dave.anctil@brebeuf.qc.ca 17 References Ackmann, M. (2004). 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