"in light of the hazards astronauts face"

Dear Teachers,

I am writing to ask the meaning of the following sentence.

Differences between the orbits of Earth and Mars mean that such a mission would take almost three years to complete. The National Space Bilmedical Research Institute (NSBRI) is currently investigating whether such an operation is possible "in light of the hazards astronauts face."

Could someone explain the meaning of "in light of the hazards astronauts face." for me???

Thanks:)

Emily

[Tdol]

Considering the hazards they face.