In "Packing for Mars: The Curious Science of Life in the Void," author Mary Roach draws an intriguing parallel between weightlessness and the experience of using heroin. She suggests that just as a person might be captivated by the initial experience of heroin, feeling an irresistible desire to return to that high, the same intense allure exists with the sensation of weightlessness. The thrill of floating in zero gravity is so exhilarating that it leaves a lasting impression.
However, Roach notes that this thrill is not permanent. Over time, just like the high from heroin diminishes, the excitement of weightlessness can fade. This comparison emphasizes both the captivating nature of the experience and the eventual normalization of it, reflecting on the human tendency to chase after extraordinary sensations while understanding their transient nature.