We study challenges related to human spaceflight that also have relevance to human disease. Physiological changes and hazards associated with microgravity or working in space include muscle and bone loss with bedrest, acute vision and balance changes, sleep or circadian rhythm disruption, psychological effects of isolation or confinement, and radiation injury. Space travel is an extreme event that requires new ways to optimize or enhance human endurance and capabilities.
Ongoing Studies
- Cold Sleep for Long Duration Space Flight
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Purpose of the study is to identify a method that can lower activity and metabolism in astronauts during long spaceflights in order to conserve oxygen, food, and reduce the psychological stress from being confined in a spaceship for multiple weeks.