“Female” Space: Myths, Physiology, and New Reality The concept of “female” space has long existed at the intersection of political propaganda, gender stereotypes, and real physiological differences. Today, it is transforming, giving way to the concept of inclusive spaceflight, where scientific data, not prejudices, play a key role. Historical Breakthrough and Ideological Context The first flight of a woman into space on June 16, 1963, was more of an ideological triumph for the Soviet Union than a humanitarian one. Valentina Tereshkova's selection was due not only to her outstanding parachute and physical qualities but also to her social background — “a simple girl from a factory,” which perfectly fit the narrative of Soviet equality of opportunities. However, her flight on “Vostok-6” revealed problems: discomfort with the spacesuit, poor tolerance of weightlessness, and difficulties with spacecraft control, which forced Korolev to declare: “I won’t let any more old maids into space.” For decades, cosmonautics returned to a “male” format. It was only in 1982 that Svetlana Savitskaya went into space for the second time, and in 1984, she became the first woman to perform a spacewalk. Her preparation, like that of the first American Sally Ride (1983), was already devoid of showy ideology and based on strict professional criteria. Physiological Aspects: Myths vs Data For a long time, it was believed that the female body was less adapted to cosmic loads. However, modern research shows a more complex picture. Ionizing Radiation. Tissues in the female breast and pelvic organs are considered more radiosensitive. Calculated risks of oncological diseases from cosmic radiation for women are 5-10% higher at the same dose of exposure. This is not a ban, but a parameter for planning mission duration and developing protection. Bone-Muscle System. Women, on average, have lower bone mass and muscle strength, which theoretically increases the risk of osteoporosis and atrophy in weight ... Read more