American astronauts lose World Cup bet, shave heads
When the U.S. lost to Germany last week in the World Cup, it was bad news for American astronauts Steve Swanson and Reid Wiseman.
Swanson and Wiseman had a friendly bet with fellow ISS astronaut Alexander Gerst of Germany. If the U.S. won, Gerst would allow them to paint the U.S. flag on his head; but if Germany won, then Swanson and Wiseman would have their hair shaven off.
Needless to say, it was soon time to pay up -- and the crew captured it all on camera.
Mission Control suggested that the American astronauts look on the bright side, pointing out that "bald is more aerodynamic when flying."
Good game Germany! Thanks for the shave @astro_alex #worldcup pic.twitter.com/mJ0upYT87c
— Reid Wiseman (@astro_reid) June 26, 2014
Already bald himself, Gerst made quick work of the Americans' hair -- posting the final photos to Twitter.
Mission accomplished. Thanks to @DFB_Team_EN & @ussoccer for a fun evening in space! #USAGER @astro_reid pic.twitter.com/DkLvJwNm9o
— Alexander Gerst (@Astro_Alex) June 27, 2014
Wiseman claims he doesn't mind his new look.
It was nice to wake up this morning and not worry about my hair. There isn’t any. @astro_alex #worldcupfun
— Reid Wiseman (@astro_reid) June 27, 2014