NASA is studying whether golf is safe in space. Mission controllers are considering whether to let a Russian cosmonaut drive a gold-plated golf ball off the international space station in August.

The Russians have agreed to the publicity stunt for Canadian golf club maker Element 21 Golf.

The ball, equipped with a tracking device, is expected to remain in orbit for several years.

NASA officials met on Tuesday to review the safety of the stunt, which already has been approved by the Russian space agency. NASA is expected to make a decision at a later date.

The cosmonaut who took command last week, has practiced drives in his baggy spacesuit in a training pool and in an airplane that simulates weightlessness.

Golf balls, the six-iron and a special platform are already on the station.