How a Renowned Astronaut Claims ‘Guardians 3’ Space Scene Could Lead to Catastrophic Consequences

• An astronaut analyzes the accuracy of the space scene in “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.”
• In the movie, Star-Lord (Chris Pratt) faces near-death as he floats through space without a helmet.
• According to Chris Hadfield, a former NASA astronaut, a human might survive for about 30 seconds without a spacesuit.

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A retired astronaut has offered insights on the accuracy of Star-Lord’s perilous space experience in “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.”

In the latest “Guardians” movie, Star-Lord (Chris Pratt) is depicted floating through space without a spacesuit or helmet. In this scene, the protagonist gradually loses oxygen, causing his face to freeze with ice and swell, until he is ultimately rescued by Will Poulter’s character.

In a recent YouTube video by Vanity Fair, Chris Hadfield, a former NASA astronaut and engineer, commented on how the prolonged duration of Star-Lord’s space drift could have severe consequences in real life.

“Our best estimate is that you can survive outside of a spaceship without a spacesuit for about 30 seconds, without any major issues,” said Hadfield.

“However, after approximately 90 seconds, there would be irreversible, life-threatening damage,” Hadfield continued. “In just 90 seconds, you would become a satellite.”

“Within 15 seconds, all the oxygen in your blood would have been exhaled through your lungs,” explained Hadfield. “As a result, your blood would lack sufficient oxygen, leading to unconsciousness when it reaches your brain.”

Regarding Star-Lord’s facial swelling, Hadfield confirmed its plausibility to some extent.

Hadfield explained, “If you were to remove your helmet in space, your lungs would contract while the pressure within your blood would release, causing bubbles to form in your blood, cheeks, and other tissues, resulting in swelling.”

However, Hadfield added, “The degree of swelling depicted in the movie is exaggerated.”

According to Hadfield, the ice crystallization on Star-Lord’s face is less realistic in comparison to what would happen in reality.

“It wouldn’t occur in that manner,” stated the retired astronaut. “There is no water on your face, so it wouldn’t instantly freeze. Your body has a significant thermal mass. It’s similar to placing a large roast in the freezer—it doesn’t freeze instantaneously; it takes time.”