What really happens when exposed to a vacuum?

Posted by Alan Bellows here: Outer Space Exposure

Very informative article about a topic that has been exaggerated in movies for years. A little morbid and not for the faint of heart. Also included are some good links to resources for even more information on the subject for those interested.

I have to say it is somewhat encouraging to know I would have a small amount of time to react and take action to save myself if in such a situation. I don't see myself becoming an astronaut, but in the event space tourism becomes affordable in my lifetime (it very well could) I would be in a position to take advantage of this knowledge. I suspect by then it would be much safer and there would be more built in safety measures to prevent such incidents from occurring.