5 Shocking Effects on the Human Body in Deep Space
The Human Body in Deep Space Faces Alarming Challenges
Bone and muscle deterioration, radiation exposure, and vision impairment are just a few effects on the human body in deep space. As US astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams prepare to return home after nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS), the impact of deep space on the human body is under intense scrutiny.
While many health risks are well-documented, others remain mysterious, especially as humanity plans missions to Mars and beyond. Space agencies worldwide are racing to develop innovative solutions to protect astronauts.
How Microgravity Affects the Human Body in Deep Space
Microgravity in space causes severe physical changes. On Earth, simple movements counteract gravity and keep muscles and bones strong. In orbit, astronauts lose this natural resistance.
To combat these effects on the human body in deep space, astronauts aboard the ISS use specialized exercise equipment.
This includes a resistance device installed in 2009, which mimics weightlifting. Daily two-hour workouts have proven effective, reducing the risk of fractures upon return to Earth, according to Rihana Bokhari, an assistant professor at the Center for Space Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine.
The Balance and Fluid Shift Problem in Deep Space
A surprising effect on the human body in deep space is balance disruption. Emmanuel Urquieta, vice chair of Aerospace Medicine at the University of Central Florida, confirms that all astronauts experience balance issues. Upon returning, they must undergo NASA’s 45-day rehabilitation program to restore their motor skills and inner ear function.
Another critical issue is “fluid shift.” In microgravity, bodily fluids move toward the head. This shift increases calcium levels in the urine, heightening the risk of kidney stones. Additionally, increased pressure in the skull can alter the shape of the eyeball, leading to spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome (SANS).
Radiation Exposure and Its Deadly Impact in Deep Space
Radiation poses a significant threat to the human body in deep space. Although Earth’s magnetic field partially protects the ISS, astronauts are still exposed to higher radiation levels.
Future missions to the Moon and Mars will expose astronauts to even more harmful cosmic radiation. Astrophysicist Siegfried Eggl of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign emphasizes the need for advanced shielding, but current technology remains insufficient. Heavy materials like lead or water provide the best protection, but the logistics of transporting them are challenging.
Can Technology and Medicine Protect Astronauts in Deep Space?
Scientists are exploring new ways to protect the human body in deep space. Artificial gravity, created by rotating spacecraft, could help astronauts maintain their physical health during long journeys. Another approach involves nuclear propulsion, which would speed up travel and reduce radiation exposure.
In the medical field, research into gene therapies and radiation-resistant drugs is ongoing. These treatments could strengthen the body against the harsh conditions of space, making deep-space missions safer for future explorers.
Psychological Challenges of Deep Space Exploration
Beyond physical dangers, the human body in deep space also faces psychological challenges. Being confined in small spaces for years can strain even the most resilient individuals.
Psychologist Joseph Keebler from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University warns that managing interpersonal conflicts will be crucial for future missions. “Imagine being stuck in a van with the same people for three years,” he said, highlighting the need for psychological resilience.
Conclusion: The Future of Human Space Travel
As space agencies push the boundaries of human exploration, understanding the effects on the human body in deep space remains vital. Through advanced technology, medical innovation, and psychological support, future missions to Mars and beyond may soon become a reality. For now, astronauts like Wilmore and Williams are paving the way for the next generation of space explorers.
