Astronauts who spend extended periods in zero gravity return to Earth up to two inches taller because the lack of atmospheric pressure allows the cartilage discs in their spinal columns to freely expand.

A closer look

Astronauts who spend extended periods in zero gravity return to Earth up to two inches taller because the lack of atmospheric pressure allows the cartilage discs in their spinal columns to freely expand. Without the relentless, crushing force of Earth's gravity pushing down on their heads all day, the human spine finally gets to stretch out like a coiled spring released from tension. Unfortunately, this cosmic growth spurt is accompanied by excruciating backaches, and the extra height vanishes mere days after returning to solid ground. So billions of dollars in aerospace engineering and years of intense physical training can buy you exactly the same temporary height advantage as a decent pair of platform shoes, proving once again that gravity is an oppressive force determined to keep you short, miserable, and grounded in reality while floating in an empty void remains the ultimate posture correction therapy