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Astronauts are extraordinary individuals, but they're also only human, and even these intrepid space travelers have to use the john once in a while. But how do they relieve themselves in the middle of outer space?
Strapping In
Without earth's gravity to bind them to the ground, astronauts must be strapped to their shuttle's toilet via leg restraints and thigh bars.
Solids
Fans within the toilet suck air and solid waste into a commode.
Liquids
For bladder excretions, astronauts use their own personal urinal funnel, which they attach to a vacuum hose that sucks liquid into a wastewater tank.
Space Suits
When encased in a space suit, traipsing about outside the shuttle, astronauts must defecate into a super-absorbent adult diaper, which is then disposed of upon return to base.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
If you're squeamish, avert your eyes: Water is scarce in space, meaning ALL liquids are recycled for later consumption--even urine!
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