The human body is not designed for space travel, with its effects ranging from microgravity to radiation exposure. Researchers are seeking new countermeasures to protect astronauts. Here’s what we know so far.
Space travel poses significant challenges to the human body due to microgravity and high-energy radiation. Unlike on Earth, where the atmosphere provides a shield against space radiation, astronauts are exposed to the full force of cosmic rays. This can lead to DNA damage, increased cancer risk, and immune system dysregulation.
Microgravity also triggers widespread physiological adaptations, including facial swelling, bone density loss, and muscle atrophy. The cardiovascular system is affected, with difficulty regulating blood pressure upon return to Earth. Prolonged exposure to microgravity conditions affects vestibular function, leading to balance and coordination issues.
Long-duration space missions require astronauts to live in confined environments with limited social interaction and exposure to natural stimuli. This can lead to psychological stress, sleep disturbances, cognitive performance declines, and mood disorders. The effects of prolonged isolation can aggravate interpersonal conflicts, impacting mental well-being and mission performance.
Recovery from space travel depends on mission duration, with short-duration missions showing 95% reversal of biological damage upon return. However, some issues persist, such as Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome (SANS), which can cause vision impairment due to fluid shifts and changes in intracranial pressure.
There are still gaps in understanding how spaceflight impacts human health, including the effects on lung function, cognitive function, mental health, and neuroplasticity. Research has shown that mitochondria play a central role in spaceflight-induced health effects, but the precise mechanisms remain elusive. The complete implications for human fertility and long-term space habitation spanning generations are unknown.
Recent research has provided valuable insights into the changes in astronauts’ brains, hearts, muscles, kidneys, skin, immune regulation, and stress levels after participating in short-duration missions. However, more studies are needed to fully understand the effects of space travel on human health and develop effective countermeasures to mitigate space-induced damage.
Source: https://www.chinadailyhk.com/hk/article/605171