Space Medicine
Physiological Challenges of Spaceflight
Space medicine is the branch of medicine that studies the physiological and psychological effects of the space environment on the human body. The primary challenges are: (1) Microgravity — causes bone density loss (1-2% per month), muscle atrophy, cardiovascular deconditioning, fluid shift (headward), and vision changes (spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome, SANS); (2) Radiation — cosmic rays and solar particle events increase cancer risk; (3) Psychological isolation and confinement; (4) Altered circadian rhythms. Short missions (3 days) pose lower risks than long-duration ones; however, even short missions require pre-flight health certification and post-flight rehabilitation. AIIMS's role in developing ground analogues (like bed-rest studies that simulate microgravity effects) will help ISRO understand and mitigate these risks before the actual Gaganyaan mission.
- Bone density loss in microgravity: 1-2% per month (equivalent to years of osteoporosis in months).
- Countermeasures: Resistance exercise, dietary supplements (Vitamin D, calcium), bone-density monitoring.
- SANS (Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome): Affects ~40-70% of long-duration astronauts; causes vision deterioration from intracranial pressure changes.
- Gut microbiome: Evidence suggests space travel alters gut bacterial composition, affecting immunity and metabolism.
- Rehabilitation post-flight: Typically 1-3 months for full musculoskeletal recovery after long missions; 3-day Gaganyaan mission will require shorter but standardised protocols.
● Tracked since March 09, 2026 · last seen March 12, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes