Cannabis in Space: What Would Happen if Astronauts Got High?
If an astronaut lit up in space (hypothetically, of course), would they get higher than ever before?
Can You Even Smoke in Space?
Before we dive into the effects, let’s get one thing straight — smoking anything in space is a terrible idea. The International Space Station (ISS) is an oxygen-rich, enclosed environment where open flames are strictly forbidden. One spark could turn the entire station into a giant fireball, and NASA is not about that life.
Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson has also pointed out a more practical issue: altered perception in an environment where everything is already trying to kill you. As he put it, “The problem is, in space now, many things will kill you. So, if you do anything to alter your understanding of what is reality, that’s not in the interest of your health.”
But let’s imagine, for science’s sake, that an astronaut could safely consume cannabis in space. What would happen?
Would You Get Higher in Zero Gravity?
In theory, yes. THC affects the body by binding to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, altering perception, coordination, and cognition. But space presents a whole new set of variables.
Blood Flow Changes: In microgravity, bodily fluids shift toward the head, which could potentially amplify THC’s effects. Imagine a perpetual head rush combined with being high — probably a lot.
Altered Metabolism: The way the body processes substances in space is still being studied, but digestion and circulation slow down. Edibles might hit differently — maybe even harder — since digestion is altered in microgravity.
Sensory Perception: Astronauts already experience something called "space euphoria," where Earth gazing causes overwhelming feelings of awe. Add cannabis to that, and it could be the most profound high of all time.
However, as Tyson humorously pointed out, if an astronaut did get high in space, they should probably “lock yourself in your cabin, and don’t come out. ‘Cause you could break stuff inadvertently.”
Would Munchies Be Worse in Space?
Astronauts often complain about dulled taste buds in space due to fluid shifts affecting their sinuses. That’s why they crave spicy, flavorful foods. Now, add THC-enhanced taste perception, and the space pantry would be emptied out in record time.
Fun fact: The ISS food supply includes tortillas instead of bread (because crumbs float everywhere). So, a stoned astronaut might just end up making infinite peanut butter and jelly tortilla roll-ups.
Would NASA Ever Allow Cannabis in Space?
Not a chance. NASA has had a strict zero-tolerance policy on drugs since 1986, following an executive order by then-President Ronald Reagan. Astronauts undergo pre-employment and random drug screenings, ensuring compliance with these rules.
While alcohol has a complicated history in space (with Russian cosmonauts reportedly sneaking vodka aboard), cannabis remains off-limits. The risk of impaired cognitive function in a life-or-death environment means that, for now, astronauts will have to settle for being high in orbit — just not that kind of high.
However, cannabis research in space is a different story. Scientists have already been studying how plants, including hemp-related species, grow in microgravity. In the future, cannabis cultivation could be a part of deep-space missions, providing potential medical and industrial applications for interstellar travelers.
Final Thoughts
While astronauts won’t be sparking up on the ISS anytime soon, the idea of cannabis in space raises fascinating questions about biology, perception, and the future of cannabis cultivation beyond Earth. Until then, the only "high" astronauts will experience is the one 250 miles above Earth.
Health Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using cannabis, particularly if you have pre-existing conditions or are taking medication.
