You Cannot Cry in Outer Space
In space, tears do not fall. Without the pull of gravity, they behave in a way that seems like magic - but it is actually quite a messy problem for astronauts. Here is why space tears stick to your face and how liquid acts differently in orbit.
Why tears don't fall in space
On Earth, gravity pulls everything down. When you cry, this force drags the liquid down your cheeks. In microgravity, that downward pull is gone. Your eyes still produce tears to stay moist, but the liquid stays exactly where it forms. It clings to your eyeball and builds up into a wobbly, growing ball of water.
The stinging sensation
Crying in space can actually be painful. On Earth, tears flow away, naturally washing and soothing your eyes. In space, they sit directly on the surface of the eye. Because tears contain salt, staying in one place for too long can cause a burning or stinging sensation. If you keep crying, the liquid ball can grow large enough to bridge across your nose to the other eye or float away entirely.
How astronauts manage tears
The solution is simple: you have to wipe them away manually. Astronauts use towels to soak up the liquid before it becomes a problem. Famous astronaut Chris Hadfield demonstrated this by putting water in his eye to show how it just sits there. His advice was clear: your eyes will cry, but since the tears won't fall, you must always have a tissue ready.
In Short
You can produce tears in space, but they will never fall down your face. Without gravity, they cluster into a salty ball on your eye that can sting or block your vision. To "cry" in space, you don't need a shoulder to lean on - you just need a very good towel.