Packing For Mars Is quite an interesting book.  When asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I distinctly remember wanting to be an astronaut. This was in fourth grade; clearly I had no idea what I was talking about. I have learned a lot about what it takes to be an astronaut after reading this book but much more than I ever wanted to know about too sweat glands and body odor. In chapter ten, Houston, We Have A Fungus, we learn about hygiene in space. The astronauts had to go anywhere from two to six weeks without bathing. On page 194, the author describes clothes and socks that were so dirty that the clothes literally deteriorated so bad they required replacement. This chapter discusses armpit, feet and groin odor; described as unsavory. At one point in space showers are utilized but unsuccessful because the water droplets floated in the air. In this chapter, we learn that body odor plateaus around day seven or eight without a shower. I can promise you, I won’t try to test that theory. I’ll take the authors word. Ever wonder why feet smell like cheese? The footnote on page 197 tells us that the bacteria L. brevis is responsible for the awful odor. Wearing cotton clothes helps since some odor is absorbed into the clothing. Some lucky people are genetically blessed and can’t smell body odor. The author describes a situation where a bunch of people get in an elevator and someone smells really bad but does not recognize their own smell. I guess it really isn't a blessing if you can’t smell yourself. That would be awful. After reading this book I am glad I didn't become an astronaut. They have to have a pretty distinct set of skills to be successful and living in their own filth is one that I don’t think I could handle.