As we make strides towards an era of prolonged space missions – from establishing lunar bases to planning manned missions to Mars – a better understanding of the effects of long-term space flight on the human body has become a critical area of research.
The environment of space is remarkably different from that of Earth. It exposes astronauts to conditions of microgravity, increased radiation, isolation, and confinement, all of which can potentially affect the physical and psychological well-being of space travelers. This article reviews the physiological and psychological effects that long-term space flight can have on the human body.
Microgravity and Musculoskeletal System
In the microgravity environment of space, the human body experiences weightlessness, which has profound effects on the musculoskeletal system. Muscle mass and strength can decrease significantly due to lack of use, a condition known as muscle atrophy. The muscles most affected are the ones used for maintaining posture and performing locomotive activities on Earth, like the calf muscles and the muscles of the lower back.
The skeletal system is also affected. Long-term space flight can lead to a condition known as spaceflight osteopenia, characterized by reduced bone mineral density. Astronauts can lose up to 1-2% of their bone mass per month, especially from weight-bearing bones like the spine and legs. This demineralization can increase the risk of fractures and could potentially lead to osteoporosis.
Eyesight and Ocular Health
One of the significant and lesser-known effects of long-term space flight is its impact on eyesight. A condition known as spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome (SANS) has been identified in many astronauts during and after long-duration space missions. SANS includes a range of ocular changes such as optic disc edema, globe flattening, choroidal and retinal folds, and refractive changes, all of which can affect an astronaut’s vision.
Microgravity is thought to play a key role in these changes, causing a headward fluid shift that increases pressure within the skull and consequently around the optic nerve. This can lead to vision impairments which can be permanent in some cases. More research is underway to understand the exact mechanisms of SANS, to predict which astronauts may be more susceptible, and to develop effective countermeasures.
Cardiovascular System
The cardiovascular system undergoes changes in space. The heart, essentially a muscle, can also experience atrophy in microgravity, leading to a decrease in cardiac performance. Additionally, the absence of gravity disrupts the normal circulation patterns of blood. Astronauts often experience a headward fluid shift, leading to facial edema and “bird leg” syndrome. The body tries to compensate by reducing the total blood volume, which can lead to orthostatic intolerance upon return to Earth, making astronauts feel faint when they stand up.
Radiation and Immune System
Space is filled with cosmic radiation, significantly higher than what we experience on Earth. This elevated radiation level can increase the risk of developing cancer. It can also cause damage to the central nervous system, potentially causing cognitive impairments and mood changes.
Interestingly, space travel also affects the immune system, although the exact mechanisms are still not fully understood. Alterations in immune cell function have been noted, and wound healing may also be slower in space. The spacecraft’s enclosed environment can potentially increase the risk of transmission of infections among the crew.
Neurovestibular System
The neurovestibular system, which comprises structures that maintain balance and spatial orientation, can be significantly affected by long-term space flight. Astronauts often experience space motion sickness due to the adaptation of the brain to the new gravity-less environment. On return to Earth, they might face difficulties in coordinating movement and maintaining balance.
Psychological Effects
Apart from physiological changes, the psychological impacts of long-term space travel are significant. The confined and isolated environment can lead to feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety. Crew members might also experience interpersonal conflicts. The circadian rhythm can be disrupted, leading to sleep disorders.
Looking to the Future
NASA and others have on going research related to the impact of long-term space travel on humans, including the following areas:
| Research Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Exercise Regimens | Given the impact of microgravity on muscles and bones, developing efficient in-flight exercise programs is a significant area of research. Devices like the Advanced Resistive Exercise Device (ARED) on the International Space Station (ISS) simulate weight-bearing exercises to combat muscle atrophy and bone loss. |
| Diet and Nutrition | Research is underway to optimize the nutritional intake of astronauts to minimize bone and muscle loss. This includes the right balance of vitamins D and K, calcium, and protein. |
| Radiation Shielding | To protect astronauts from the increased cosmic radiation in space, research into more effective radiation shielding materials and techniques is ongoing. |
| Pharmacological Solutions | Research is being conducted into potential drug therapies to combat issues such as bone loss, immune dysfunction, and radiation exposure. |
| Artificial Gravity | There is ongoing study into the use of artificial gravity as a potential solution to many health problems. This could be achieved by rotating spacecraft to create a centrifugal force that mimics gravity. |
| Psychological Support | Given the significant psychological challenges of long-term space travel, providing effective psychological support is crucial. This might include improved communication systems, virtual reality technologies to combat feelings of isolation, and strategies to manage interpersonal conflicts. |
| Telemedicine | To manage health conditions and emergencies in space, agencies are researching advanced telemedicine technologies. These would allow remote medical consultations, diagnostics, and even procedures. |
| Twin Studies | Twin studies, like NASA’s landmark study with astronaut twins Scott and Mark Kelly, are being conducted to directly compare the physiological and genetic impacts of space travel. |
The importance of understanding and mitigating the impacts of long-term space flight on the human body cannot be overstated. Prolonged stays in space require countermeasures to these physical and psychological changes, ranging from specialized exercise regimens
