As incredible as it sounds, you could make some serious cash just laying in bed. No, it’s not a gimmick, but, rather, part of a space scientific study in France.
According a 20 Minutes report, the Institute for Space Medicine and Physiology (Medes) in Toulouse, France, needs approximately 24 individuals to study the effect(s) of staying in bed for 60 straight days.
The idea is to understand (or mimic) effects on the human body (mental, physical, emotional, etc …) for prolonged periods of weightlessness and staying in bed. Obviously, scientists can use the gleaned information on how the body responds to the “Space Environment” to design strategies and apparatuses for Space travel and confinement.
However, you might want to think twice or buy some good health insurance before you run out the door and apply for one of these coveted spots as it’s not as easy as it sounds.
Yes, you do get to stay in bed for 60 days. However, there are some caveats: You must stay in bed for 60 straight days (with an inclination of minus 6 degrees (ie you’re feet are propped up and you must keep at least a shoulder in contact with the bed at all times), everything’s done in the bed (eating, sleeping, going to the bathroom, etc …), and you’re basically stuck (like being in space).
Scientists report that some of the typical side effects of staying in bed (weightlessness) that the participants should expect are: loss of bone mass, a decrease in immune defenses, cardiovascular changes, and muscle atrophy.
To combat these possible side effects, the scientists will give participants a concocted brew of various supplements and vitamin enriched pills. Plus, participants, if they so choose, can exercise in bed as well.
Still, all said, it could be fun getting $17,000 for just lying in bed for 60 days. Think of how much time you could surf the web and catch up on all of your favorite shows and Facebook friends.
No pain, no gain. Could you do it (or some of your friends)? If so, you or they can apply here.
