As space agencies plan longer crewed missions to the moon, Mars, and beyond, the importance of gravity to humans becomes more evident. A new study published in the journal Scientific Reports revealed that astronauts who spend extended periods in space experience significant physiological changes in their brains. The absence of gravity causes fluid to shift upward, resulting in the expansion of cavities in the brain called ventricles, which provide protection, nourishment, and waste removal to the brain. Long spaceflights may cause the ventricles in an astronaut’s brain to remain enlarged for up to three years after a mission. The study suggests that space agencies should consider a three-year break between missions to allow astronauts’ ventricles to fully recover.
Although short trips seem to cause little physiological changes to the brain, trips lasting longer than six months are more damaging. However, there appears to be little further change to the size of ventricles after six months. The study found that the ventricular expansion is the most enduring change seen in the brain as a result of spaceflight. The study also notes that beyond a year in space, there is no data on the long-term consequences of ventricular enlargement on the health and behavioral health of space travelers. Therefore, it is crucial to allow the brain time to recover by considering spacecrafts with artificial gravity or taking breaks between missions.
The once-in-15-years opportunity in 2033 to send humans on a flyby of Mars and Venus may be a necessary step in sending humans on long space flights. In conclusion, it is crucial to consider the importance of gravity to humans during extended spaceflight missions and to develop spacecrafts with artificial gravity or take breaks between missions to allow the brain to recover fully.
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Jessica Irvine is a tech enthusiast specializing in gadgets. From smart home devices to cutting-edge electronics, Jessica explores the world of consumer tech, offering readers comprehensive reviews, hands-on experiences, and expert insights into the coolest and most innovative gadgets on the market.
