An alternate vision for colonization. (June 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wells-Jensen, Sheri; Miele, Joshua A.; Bohney, Brandie
• Is Part Of: Futures. Volume 110(2019)
• Page Start: 50
• Page End: 53
• Publication Date: 2019-06
• Subjects: Universal design -- Inclusion -- Disability -- Colonization -- Diversity; Economic forecasting -- Periodicals; Technological forecasting -- Periodicals; Economic policy -- Periodicals; Prévision économique -- Périodiques; Prévision technologique -- Périodiques; Politique économique -- Périodiques; Economic forecasting; Economic policy; Technological forecasting; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 330.0112
• DOI: 10.1016/j.futures.2019.02.012
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0016-3287

Abstract

Highlights: Space craft and equipment for extended space travel or colonization should incorporate universal design principles. Inclusion of disabled crew members in extended space missions or colonization efforts is not inherently dangerous. Limiting crew selection to able-bodied candidates represents a systematic disadvantage to the colony. Abstract: In virtually all earth-side scenarios, it is increasingly understood that diversity strengthens working groups, and diversification in terms of gender, race, and sexual orientation in space exploration has been ongoing since the early 1980s. Despite the increasing acceptance of diversity among spacefarers, the idea of astronauts with disabilities has yet to be taken seriously. While other minorities assume their place among elite crews and potential colonists, the presence of even the smallest physical disability still acts as an automatic barrier to space exploration. This piece reveals the advantages of removing the barriers to more inclusive space travel, exploring the importance of universal design in space craft and equipment for long-term space missions and colonization efforts not only to allow for inclusion of disabled crew members, but also to improve functionality and safety for non-disabled crew members. We argue that administrators must overcome responses based on stereotypes and widen their approach to recruitment, training and design such that all qualified candidates are eligible and effective.