Space Environmental Theory

The framework for understanding environments beyond Earth—both natural and built—and humanity's relationship to them. Space Environmental Theory addresses the physical environment of space (radiation, microgravity, vacuum), planetary environments (Mars, Moon, etc.), and the built environments we create (habitats, spacecraft, colonies). It asks: How do environments shape human experience and society? How do we design environments that support human flourishing? What are our ethical obligations to extraterrestrial environments? Space Environmental Theory bridges engineering, psychology, ethics, and environmental philosophy—recognizing that where we live shapes who we are, and that extends to space.

Space Environmental Theory "Living in microgravity isn't just a technical challenge—it's an environmental one. Space Environmental Theory asks: how does this environment affect human bodies, minds, societies? And if we go to Mars, what's our relationship to that environment—stewardship, exploitation, transformation? Environment shapes everything; space just makes it obvious."

Space Environmental Theory by Abzugal Nammugal Enkigal March 3, 2026