Physicist and astronomer Charles Liu announced on Neil deGrasse Tyson’s StarTalk podcast that space-based sports will likely begin within the next quarter-century.
So, who is Charles Liu?
- Taiwanese-born American astronomer and astronomy educator.
- Research interests include merging and colliding galaxies, active galactic nuclei (AGN), and the star formation history of the universe.
- He currently serves as a professor of physics and astronomy at the College of Staten Island and as President of the Astronomical Society of New York.
- Liu is the 2024 recipient of the American Astronomical Society’s (AAS) Education Prize, and was named an AAS Legacy Fellow in 2020.
Yes, sports in space. Can you believe it?
Liu predicts humans will create recreational activities in microgravity environments which could lead to the development of sports exclusive to space. The term “space-ball” describes this concept, but its exact sports structure remains uncertain.
Consider the fascinating events of 1971 when Apollo 14 astronaut Alan Shepard famously hit golf balls on the lunar surface. This iconic moment showcased the exciting potential for sports beyond Earth. Additionally, Edgar Mitchell, another member of Apollo 14, threw a javelin on the moon. These remarkable feats clearly illustrate that sports in space are not only possible but could open up thrilling new frontiers for human activity and exploration.
The Space Games Federation works to develop zero-gravity sports ideas like “Float Ball” and “Space Dodgeball,” which transform traditional sports for low-gravity conditions. Current work demonstrates the increasing focus on combining physical activity with space exploration for recreational and fitness purposes.
As space tourism gains momentum, the concept of space sports is rapidly entering the mainstream. Imagine thrilling activities like Martian mountaineering or exhilarating remote-controlled rover races. These sports in space hold the potential to revolutionize equality in athletics. As Rheinstein argues, they could “define the equality of the LEO [low earth orbit] zero-gravity environment,” offering a unique platform where traditional physical advantages are leveled, and everyone can compete on equal footing. Embracing this new frontier could transform how we perceive and engage with sports altogether.
Building sports activities in orbit remains complex but achievable thanks to ongoing developments in space travel and supportive structures. Envisioned sports venues in space include constructed arenas on space stations, together with inflatable habitats modeled after Bigelow Aerospace designs. Space sports might emerge as a genuine possibility within a generation, according to Liu’s prediction while providing entertainment alongside rare scientific and cultural benefits.
MY PREDICTION: This seems a little far-fetched for 15 years (2040). It may happen in 30 or 50 years, but not 15. Please share your thoughts.