Astronauts traveling in space meet forms of radiation that are uncommon on Earth. Some of this radiation has been shown to be harmful to human health. It is linked to cancers and heart problems. Yet a new American study suggests the radiation does not shorten astronauts’ lives. Researchers studied nearly 60 years of health records and other data about male astronauts from the United States. They then compared this data to information about a group of men who are in good health, richer than most Americans and receive good healthcare: professional athletes. The study found that neither group has higher rates of dying at a young age. In fact, both groups generally live longer than other Americans. Astronauts are usually well-educated, earn more money and are in better physical condition than the average American.