Locomotion in space

Last updated
STS-116 mission specialists, NASA astronaut Robert Curbeam and ESA astronaut Christer Fuglesang perform extravehicular activity (EVA) during construction of the International Space Station STS-116 spacewalk 1.jpg
STS-116 mission specialists, NASA astronaut Robert Curbeam and ESA astronaut Christer Fuglesang perform extravehicular activity (EVA) during construction of the International Space Station

Locomotion in space includes all actions or methods used to move one's body in microgravity conditions through the outer space environment. Locomotion in these conditions is different from locomotion in a gravitational field. There are many factors that contribute to these differences, and they are crucial when researching long-term survival of humans in space.

Contents

Challenges of locomotion in reduced gravity

Humans have evolved in a 1-G environment and are therefore accustomed to Earth's standard atmospheric conditions, and the microgravity environment of space can have huge effects on the human body and its locomotion. [1]

Environmental conditions

The environmental conditions in space are harsh and require extensive equipment for survival and completion of daily activities. [2] There are many environmental factors to consider both inside and outside of a spacecraft that astronauts work in. [2] These factors include but are not limited to movement during weightlessness, general equipment necessary to travel to the desired destination in space, and gear such as space suits that hinder mobility. [2] [3] [4]

When doing extravehicular activities (EVA), it is important to be protected from the vacuum of space. [5] Exposure to this harsh environment can cause death in a small amount of time. The main environmental factors of concern in space include but are not limited to the following : [6]

Effects on the human body

There are many detrimental effects of extended exposure to reduced gravity that are similar to aging and disease. [1] [2] Some long-duration effects of reduced gravity can be simulated on Earth using bed rest. [1] These effects include: [2] [7]

The muscle volume can decrease up to 20% over a six-month mission, and the bone density can decrease at a rate of approximately 1.4% at the hip in a month's time. [10] A study done by Fitts and Trappe examined the effects of prolonged space flight (defined as approximately 180 days) on human skeletal muscle using muscle biopsies. [12] Prolonged weightlessness was shown to cause significant loss in the mass, force, and power production in the soleus and gastrocnemius muscles. [12] Many countermeasures to these effects exist, but thus far they are not sufficient to compensate for the detrimental effects of space travel and astronauts need extensive rehabilitation upon their return to Earth. [13]

Technology used to compensate for the negative effects

In order to compensate for the negative effects of prolonged exposure to microgravity, scientists have developed many countermeasure technologies with varying degrees of success.

Electrical Muscle stimulation NMES for back. Electrical Muscle stimulation.jpg
Electrical Muscle stimulation NMES for back.

Electrical stimulation

Transcutaneous electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) is the use of electric current to stimulate muscle activity. [2] [14] This method is theoretically utilized to prevent muscle atrophy and weakness. The efficacy of this approach was tested in a 30-day bed rest study done by Duovoisin in 1989. [2] [14] Though the patients showed decreased rates of muscle atrophy in the stimulated limb, there was not evidence to support that this method would necessarily prevent these effects. [2] More recently, in 2003, Yoshida et al. did a study related to hind limb suspension in rats. [2] This study concluded that the hind limb suspension and EMS did have some success in the prevention of muscle function deterioration induced by disuse. [15] There have been several scientific studies conducted that mention the application of this technique as a countermeasure in long-term spaceflight. [16]

Loading suits

Loading suits are garments that are used to help maintain loading on the bones during their time in space, not to be confused with space suits, which aid astronauts in surviving the harsh climate outside of a vehicle such as the International Space Station (ISS).

Expedition 43 commander and NASA astronaut Terry Virts shows off a special suit for his preparation process to return to Earth later. Virts tweeted this image with an explanation of the suits purpose on May 12, 2015: "Our "Penguin (pingvin)" suit- it compresses you, to get your body ready for the return to gravity". ISS-43 Terry Virts wears a 'Penguin' suit.jpg
Expedition 43 commander and NASA astronaut Terry Virts shows off a special suit for his preparation process to return to Earth later. Virts tweeted this image with an explanation of the suits purpose on May 12, 2015: "Our "Penguin (пингвин)" suit- it compresses you, to get your body ready for the return to gravity".

Pingvin suit

The Pingvin suit is designed to add musculoskeletal loads to specific muscle groups during space flight in order to prevent atrophy of the muscles in the back. [17] This lightweight suit has a series of elastic bands to create these vertical bodily loads. [9] It loads both the upper and lower body separately. [9] The upper body can be loaded up to 88 lb. (40 kg). Users have found this suit to be hot and uncomfortable, despite its low weight. [18]

Gravity Loading Countermeasure Skinsuit (GLCS)

The GLCS [19] [20] [21] is a garment designed to help mitigate the effects of musculoskeletal deconditioning. It is partly inspired by the Pingvin suit, [22] a Russian space suit used since the 1970s. [9] Employing elastic materials to place loads on the body, the GLCS attempts to mimic the gravitational loads experienced while standing. [9] [23] A pilot study was conducted in parabolic flight in order to assess the viability of the initial design in 2009. [9] This skinsuit creates a loading gradient across the body that gradually increases the loading to body weight at the feet. [9] Further iterations of the initial design have been developed and now the current version of the suit is being tested on the ISS as part of a research project sponsored by the ESA. [24]

Other loading suits

  • DYNASUIT concept [18]

The DYNASUIT is a conceptual design that involves a suit that can be divided into many subsystems. Each subsytem controls a different aspect of the suit. For example, there is a bio-parameter subsystem that would measure physiological responses like muscle signals (EMG), heart rate, electrocardiogram, ventilation rate, body temperature, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation. There is also a central control unit or the equivalent of the suit's brain, as well as an artificial muscle subsystem that proposes to use either electro-active polymers (EAP) or pneumatics to apply forces on the body. There is also a proposed user interface to help the astronaut interact with the suit. This potential design is still in the development phase and has not been prototyped at this point.

Pharmacologic therapy

In general, the way a person's body absorbs medicine in reduced gravity conditions is significantly different than normal absorption properties here on Earth. [25] In addition, there are various pharmacological or drug therapies that are used to counter certain side effects of prolonged space flight. [25] For example, dextroamphetamine has been used by NASA to help with space motion sickness and orthostatic intolerance. [26] The use of biophosphate alendronate has been proposed to aid in the prevention of bone loss but no conclusive evidence has been found to show that it helps in this regard. [27] See recommended reading for more information on space pharmacology.

Artificial gravity

Artificial gravity (AG) is the increase or decrease of gravitational force on an object or person by artificial means. [2] Different types of forces, including linear acceleration and centripetal force, can be used to generate this artificial gravitational force. [2]

The use of artificial gravity to counteract simulated microgravity (e.g. bed rest) on Earth has been shown to have conflicting results for the maintenance of bone, muscle, and cardiovascular systems. [1] [28] [29] [30] Short arm centrifuges can be used to generate loading conditions greater than gravity that could help prevent the skeletal muscle and bone loss associated with prolonged spaceflight and bedrest. [31] [32] A pilot study done by Caiozzo and Haddad in 2008 [7] compared two groups of subjects: one that had been on bed rest of 21 days (in order to simulate the effects of prolonged space travel), and another that had been on bed rest as well as being exposed to artificial gravity for one hour a day. They used a short arm centrifuge to artificially induce the gravitational force. After taking muscle biopsy samples, they determined that the group that had been exposed to artificial gravity did not show as severe a deficit in terms of muscle fiber cross-sectional area. [33]

Even though this technology has potential to aid in counteracting the detrimental effects of prolonged spaceflight, there are difficulties in applying these artificial gravity systems in space. [1] [34] Rotating the whole spacecraft is expensive and introduces another layer of complexity to the design. [1] A smaller centrifuge can be used to provide intermittent exposure, but the available exercise activities in the small centrifuge are limited due to the high rotation speed required to generate adequate artificial gravitational forces. The subject can experience "unpleasant vestibular and Coriolis effects" while in the centrifuge. [1] [35]

Several studies have suggested that artificial gravity might be an adequate countermeasure for prolonged space flight, especially if combined with other countermeasures. [1] [7] [36] [37] [38] A conceptual design entitled ViGAR (Virtual Gravity Artificial Reality) was proposed in 2005 by Kobrick et al. and it details a device that combines artificial gravity, exercise and virtual reality to counter the negative effects of prolonged spaceflight. It includes a bicycle on a centrifuge as well as an integrated virtual reality system. [13]

Exercise methods

Astronaut Sunita L. Williams, Expedition 14 flight engineer, equipped with a bungee harness, exercises on the Treadmill Vibration Isolation System (TVIS) in the Zvezda Service Module of the International Space Station. TVIS treadmill.jpg
Astronaut Sunita L. Williams, Expedition 14 flight engineer, equipped with a bungee harness, exercises on the Treadmill Vibration Isolation System (TVIS) in the Zvezda Service Module of the International Space Station.

Treadmill Vibration Isolation and Stabilization (TVIS)

The TVIS [10] [39] is a modified treadmill. It includes a vibration isolation system, which prevents the forces from the exercise from being transferred into the International Space Station (ISS). This device is used in a very similar manner to a regular treadmill. In order to hold the user to the surface of the treadmill, it includes a system of straps called the series bungee system (SBS) which use latex tubes or straps called "subject load devices" (SLDs) attached to a harness. These straps place resistive forces and loads in a range of 40 lb. to 220 lb. on the crew member's body as they walk or run on the treadmill.

Cycle Ergometer with Vibration Isolation (CEVIS)

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, Expedition 32 flight engineer, exercises on the Cycle Ergometer with Vibration Isolation System (CEVIS) in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station Expedition 32 flight engineer Sunita Williams Exercises on CEVIS.jpg
NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, Expedition 32 flight engineer, exercises on the Cycle Ergometer with Vibration Isolation System (CEVIS) in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station

The CEVIS [10] [40] provides both aerobic and cardiovascular training using recumbent cycling activities. The workload placed on the subject can be tuned very accurately. The astronauts can create target goals of speed, workload and heart rate. It is a modified version of the Inertial Vibration Isolation and Stabilization (IVIS) Cycle Ergometer. [41] It has a control panel that displays the target workload as well as the actual workload in addition to the cycling speed, heart rate, deviation from target speed and heart rate, and elapsed exercise time. The workload range is between 25 and 350 Watts. The pedal speeds range from 30 to 120 rpm. There is a vibration isolation system that prevents the motions and forces generated by the crew member exercising from being transferred to the International Space Station (ISS).

It is currently used on the International Space Station as part of the astronauts' weekly exercise schedule and it is certified for 15 years of on-orbit service.

Interim Resistance Exercise Device (iRED)

SS017E006639 (11 May 2008) - NASA astronaut Garrett Reisman, Expedition 17 flight engineer, wearing squat harness pads, performs knee-bends using the Interim Resistive Exercise Device (IRED) equipment in the Unity node of the International Space Station. ISS Expedition 17 Reisman exercises.jpg
SS017E006639 (11 May 2008) - NASA astronaut Garrett Reisman, Expedition 17 flight engineer, wearing squat harness pads, performs knee-bends using the Interim Resistive Exercise Device (IRED) equipment in the Unity node of the International Space Station.

The iRED [10] [42] provides resistive exercise to the user which helps prevent muscle atrophy and minimize bone loss. It focuses on maintaining the strength, power, and endurance of the crew member. It has over 18 different exercises for both upper and lower body and provides up to a 300 lb. resistive force. Examples of possible exercises include but are not limited to: squats, straight-leg deadlifts, bent-leg deadlifts, heel raises, bend-over rows, upright rows, bicep curls, shoulder presses etc.

It was used daily as a part of the crew members' exercise regimen but was retired in October 2011. Now, the Advanced Resistive Exercise Device (ARED) [43] is used.

Other exercise methods for use in space

  • Flywheel exercise device (FWED) [44]
    ESA Astronaut Frank De Winne performs the seated row on the Flywheel exercise device (FWED) in the Columbus laboratory of the International Space Station ISS-21 Frank De Winne performs activation and checkout steps in the Columbus lab.jpg
    ESA Astronaut Frank De Winne performs the seated row on the Flywheel exercise device (FWED) in the Columbus laboratory of the International Space Station
  • Multi-purpose Integrated Countermeasures Stimulator (M-ICS) [44]
  • Resistive Vibration Exercise [44]
  • Integrated Countermeasure and Rehabilitation Exerciser (ICARE) [44]
  • Short Arm Human Centrifuge [44]
  • Lower Body Negative Pressure Exercise (LBNP) [35] [45]

Effectiveness and assessment of these methods

The TVIS and iRED are largely ineffective when it comes to maintaining muscle volume and bone density. [10] [46] [47] Both the TVIS and the iRED cannot generate forces that are similar to those experienced on Earth. [10] The harnesses and bungee cords used in many of these device cause substantial discomfort, and in the future need to be redesigned for ease of long-duration use. [48] The CEVIS, at its maximal setting, is the only permanent device on ISS that can achieve resistive loads that are comparable to Earth. [10] The FWED (flown on ISS in 2009; photo), adapted for experimental bedrest in 1-g, achieved resistive forces exceeding body weight and mitigated bone and muscle atrophy. [49]

The European Space Agency employs many different devices to assess the effectiveness of different countermeasure technologies: [44]

  • Muscle Atrophy Research and Exercise System (MARES)
  • Portable Pulmonary Function System (PPFS)
  • Earlobe Arterialised Blood Collector (EAB C)
  • Long-Term Medical Survey System (LTMS)
  • ISS-compatible X-Ray Imaging System
  • Biofeedback and Virtual-reality systems: Enhanced Virtual-Reality System (eVRS)
Center of mass on a massless leg travelling along the trunk trajectory path in inverted pendulum theory. Velocity vectors are shown perpendicular to the ground reaction force at time 1 and time 2. Inverted Pendulum.png
Center of mass on a massless leg travelling along the trunk trajectory path in inverted pendulum theory. Velocity vectors are shown perpendicular to the ground reaction force at time 1 and time 2.

Kinematics of locomotion in space

See also: Bipedalism, Walking, and Gait analysis

Gravity has a large influence on walking speed, muscle activity patterns, gait transitions and the mechanics of locomotion, [50] [51] which means that the kinematics of locomotion in space need to be studied in order to optimize movements in that environment.

On Earth, the dynamic similarity hypothesis is used to compare gaits between people of different heights and weights. [52] This hypothesis states that different mammals move in a dynamically similar manner when traveling at a speed where they have the same ratio of inertial forces to gravitational forces. [52] This ratio is called the Froude number and is a dimensionless parameter that allows the gait of different sizes and species of animals to be compared. [52] The Froude number is based on the mass of the person, the leg length, the person's velocity and the gravitational acceleration. [53] It indicates the point at which a person switches from walking to running and is typically around 0.5 for humans in Earth's gravity. [53] At reduced levels of gravity, individuals switch to running at slower speeds, but still at approximately the same Froude number. [54] [55]

When locomotion is studied in space, these same relations do not always apply. For example, the inverted pendulum model for walking might not be applicable in reduced gravity conditions. [56] In addition, when using a space suit, there are very apparent differences in the Froude number. [57] [58] Christopher Carr and Jeremy McGee at MIT developed a modified parameter called the Apollo number in 2009. [59] The Apollo number takes into account the weight that the space suit supports as well as the difference in gravitational acceleration. [59] While it does not explain all of the differences between walking in a space suit versus without, it accounts for 60% of that difference, and has the potential to provide valuable information for optimization of future space suit designs. [59]

Energetics of locomotion in space

See also: Space suit, Bioenergetic systems

On Earth, it takes half of the amount of energy to walk a mile when compared to running the same distance. [60] In contrast, when using a spacesuit under reduced gravity conditions, running is more efficient than walking. [61] Generally, walking in reduced gravity has a high metabolic cost which means that there is some disruption of normal gait kinematics while in this environment. [62] While running in reduced gravity conditions, the energy consumption of the human body decreases proportionally as body weight decreases. [60] This combined with other evidence indicates that space suits behave similarly to springs while running, which in turn would decrease the cost of transport when compared to walking. [61] A study by Christopher Carr and Dava Newman suggested that the cause of this spring-like behavior is knee torque, [61] which means in motions that require a larger bend in the knee, the contributions from the space suit will be greater.

The limitations on extravehicular activity (EVA) in space are related to the metabolic costs of locomotion in a spacesuit. [63] Metabolic cost refers to the energy cost of a physical activity. Looking forward to future space missions and colonization, EVA limitations are important to consider. [63] The aspects that play the greatest role in the energetic cost of movement in a spacesuit are the "suit pressurization, gravity, velocity, surface slope, and space suit configuration. [63]

See also

Further reading

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Centrifuge</span> Device using centrifugal force to separate fluids

A centrifuge is a device that uses centrifugal force to subject a specimen to a specified constant force - for example, to separate various components of a fluid. This is achieved by spinning the fluid at high speed within a container, thereby separating fluids of different densities or liquids from solids. It works by causing denser substances and particles to move outward in the radial direction. At the same time, objects that are less dense are displaced and moved to the centre. In a laboratory centrifuge that uses sample tubes, the radial acceleration causes denser particles to settle to the bottom of the tube, while low-density substances rise to the top. A centrifuge can be a very effective filter that separates contaminants from the main body of fluid.

g-suit Flight suit which controls blood-flow during high acceleration

A g-suit, or anti-g suit, is a flight suit worn by aviators and astronauts who are subject to high levels of acceleration force (g). It is designed to prevent a black-out and g-LOC caused by the blood pooling in the lower part of the body when under acceleration, thus depriving the brain of blood. Black-out and g-LOC have caused a number of fatal aircraft accidents.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Artificial gravity</span> Use of circular rotational force to mimic gravity

Artificial gravity is the creation of an inertial force that mimics the effects of a gravitational force, usually by rotation. Artificial gravity, or rotational gravity, is thus the appearance of a centrifugal force in a rotating frame of reference, as opposed to the force experienced in linear acceleration, which by the equivalence principle is indistinguishable from gravity. In a more general sense, "artificial gravity" may also refer to the effect of linear acceleration, e.g. by means of a rocket engine.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Effect of spaceflight on the human body</span> Medical issues associated with spaceflight

The effects of spaceflight on the human body are complex and largely harmful over both short and long term. Significant adverse effects of long-term weightlessness include muscle atrophy and deterioration of the skeleton. Other significant effects include a slowing of cardiovascular system functions, decreased production of red blood cells, balance disorders, eyesight disorders and changes in the immune system. Additional symptoms include fluid redistribution, loss of body mass, nasal congestion, sleep disturbance, and excess flatulence. A 2024 assessment noted that "well-known problems include bone loss, heightened cancer risk, vision impairment, weakened immune systems, and mental health issues... [y]et what’s going on at a molecular level hasn’t always been clear", arousing concerns especially vis a vis private and commercial spaceflight now occurring without any scientific or medical research being conducted among those populations regarding effects.

Spaceflight osteopenia refers to the characteristic bone loss that occurs during spaceflight. Astronauts lose an average of more than 1% bone mass per month spent in space. There is concern that during long-duration flights, excessive bone loss and the associated increase in serum calcium ion levels will interfere with execution of mission tasks and result in irreversible skeletal damage.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Colonization of the asteroid belt</span> Proposed concepts for the human colonization of the asteroids

Asteroids, including those in the asteroid belt, have been suggested as possible sites of space colonization. Motives include the survival of humanity, and the specific economic opportunity for asteroid mining. Obstacles include transportation distance, temperature, radiation, lack of gravity, and psychological issues.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Space medicine</span> For health conditions encountered during spaceflight

Space Medicine is a subspecialty of Emergency Medicine which evolved from the Aerospace Medicine specialty. Space Medicine is dedicated to the prevention and treatment of medical conditions that would limit success in space operations. Space medicine focuses specifically on prevention, acute care, emergency medicine, wilderness medicine, hyper/hypobaric medicine in order to provide medical care of astronauts and spaceflight participants. The spaceflight environment poses many unique stressors to the human body, including G forces, microgravity, unusual atmospheres such as low pressure or high carbon dioxide, and space radiation. Space medicine applies space physiology, preventive medicine, primary care, emergency medicine, acute care medicine, austere medicine, public health, and toxicology to prevent and treat medical problems in space. This expertise is additionally used to inform vehicle systems design to minimize the risk to human health and performance while meeting mission objectives.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Bioastronautics</span> Academic discipline

Bioastronautics is a specialty area of biological and astronautical research which encompasses numerous aspects of biological, behavioral, and medical concern governing humans and other living organisms in outer space; and includes the design of space vehicle payloads, space habitats, and life-support systems. In short, it spans the study and support of life in space.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">High-g training</span> Training done by aviators and astronauts

High-g training is done by aviators and astronauts who are subject to high levels of acceleration ('g'). It is designed to prevent a g-induced loss of consciousness (g-LOC), a situation when the action of g-forces moves the blood away from the brain to the extent that consciousness is lost. Incidents of acceleration-induced loss of consciousness have caused fatal accidents in aircraft capable of sustaining high-g for considerable periods.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Weightlessness</span> Zero apparent weight, microgravity

Weightlessness is the complete or near-complete absence of the sensation of weight, i.e., zero apparent weight. It is also termed zero g-force, or zero-g or, incorrectly, zero gravity.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Random positioning machine</span>

A random positioning machine, or RPM, rotates biological samples along two independent axes to change their orientation in space in complex ways and so eliminate the effect of gravity.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Treadmill with Vibration Isolation Stabilization</span> Treadmill aboard the International Space Station

The Treadmill with Vibration Isolation Stabilization System, commonly abbreviated as TVIS, is a treadmill for use on board the International Space Station and is designed to allow astronauts to run without vibrating delicate microgravity science experiments in adjacent labs. International Space Station treadmills, not necessarily described here, have included the original treadmill, the original TVIS, the БД-2, the Combined Operational Load-Bearing External Resistance Treadmill (COLBERT), and the Treadmill 2. Some share a name, some a design, some a function, some use different (passive) vibration-suppression systems, some it is unclear how they differ.

Space neuroscience or astroneuroscience is the scientific study of the central nervous system (CNS) functions during spaceflight. Living systems can integrate the inputs from the senses to navigate in their environment and to coordinate posture, locomotion, and eye movements. Gravity has a fundamental role in controlling these functions. In weightlessness during spaceflight, integrating the sensory inputs and coordinating motor responses is harder to do because gravity is no longer sensed during free-fall. For example, the otolith organs of the vestibular system no longer signal head tilt relative to gravity when standing. However, they can still sense head translation during body motion. Ambiguities and changes in how the gravitational input is processed can lead to potential errors in perception, which affects spatial orientation and mental representation. Dysfunctions of the vestibular system are common during and immediately after spaceflight, such as space motion sickness in orbit and balance disorders after return to Earth.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Spaceflight associated neuro-ocular syndrome</span>

Spaceflight associated neuro-ocular syndrome (SANS), previously called spaceflight-induced visual impairment, is hypothesized to be a result of increased intracranial pressure (ICP), although experiments directly measuring ICP in parabolic flight have shown ICP to be in normal physiological ranges during acute weightless exposure. The study of visual changes and ICP in astronauts on long-duration flights is a relatively recent topic of interest to space medicine professionals. Although reported signs and symptoms have not appeared to be severe enough to cause blindness in the near term, long term consequences of chronically elevated intracranial pressure are unknown.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Adeli suit</span> Suit to treat children with physical disabilities

The ADELI Suit is derived from a suit originally designed for the Soviet space program in the late 1960s that was first tested in 1971. The purpose then was to give the cosmonauts in space a way to counter the effects of long-term weightlessness on the body. The ADELI Suit is currently used to treat children with physical disabilities resulting from cerebral palsy, other neurological conditions originating from brain damage or spinal cord injury.

Even before the very beginning of human space exploration, serious and reasonable concerns were expressed about exposure of humans to the microgravity of space due to the potential systemic effects on terrestrially-evolved life forms adapted to Earth gravity. Unloading of skeletal muscle, both on Earth via bed-rest experiments and during spaceflight, result in remodeling of muscle. As a result, decrements occur in skeletal muscle strength, fatigue resistance, motor performance, and connective tissue integrity. In addition, there are cardiopulmonary and vascular changes, including a significant decrease in red blood cell mass, that affect skeletal muscle function. This normal adaptive response to the microgravity environment may become a liability resulting in increased risk of an inability or decreased efficiency in crewmember performance of physically demanding tasks during extravehicular activity (EVA) or upon return to Earth.

Heart rhythm disturbances have been seen among astronauts. Most of these have been related to cardiovascular disease, but it is not clear whether this was due to pre-existing conditions or effects of space flight. It is hoped that advanced screening for coronary disease has greatly mitigated this risk. Other heart rhythm problems, such as atrial fibrillation, can develop over time, necessitating periodic screening of crewmembers’ heart rhythms. Beyond these terrestrial heart risks, some concern exists that prolonged exposure to microgravity may lead to heart rhythm disturbances. Although this has not been observed to date, further surveillance is warranted.

The following page is a list of scientific research that is currently underway or has been previously studied on the International Space Station by the European Space Agency.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Microgravity bioprinting</span>

Microgravity bioprinting is the utilization of 3D bioprinting techniques under microgravity conditions to fabricate highly complex, functional tissue and organ structures. The zero gravity environment circumvents some of the current limitations of bioprinting on Earth including magnetic field disruption and biostructure retention during the printing process. Microgravity bioprinting is one of the initial steps to advancing in space exploration and colonization while furthering the possibilities of regenerative medicine.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Flywheel training</span> Type of strength training

Flywheel training is a type of strength training where the resistance required for muscle activation is generated by the inertia of a flywheel instead of gravity from weights as in traditional weight training.

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Hargens, Alan R.; Bhattacharya, Roshmi; Schneider, Suzanne M. (2012-10-19). "Space physiology VI: exercise, artificial gravity, and countermeasure development for prolonged space flight". European Journal of Applied Physiology. 113 (9): 2183–2192. doi:10.1007/s00421-012-2523-5. ISSN   1439-6319. PMID   23079865. S2CID   7851113.
  2. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Clément, Gilles; Bukley, Angie, eds. (2007). Artificial Gravity - Springer. doi:10.1007/0-387-70714-x. ISBN   978-0-387-70712-9.
  3. ↑ Harris, G., & American Astronautical Society. (2001). The origins and technology of the advanced extravehicular space suit (American Astronautical Society. AAS history series ; v. 24). San Diego, Calif.: Published for the American Astronautical Society by Univelt.
  4. ↑ Reinhardt, A., & Ames Research Center. (1989). Results and applications of a space suit range-of-motion study (NASA technical memorandum ; 102204). Moffett Field, Calif. : Springfield, Va.: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Ames Research Center ; For sale by the National Technical Information Service.
  5. ↑ Mallan, L. (1971). Suiting up for space; the evolution of the space suit. New York: John Day.
  6. ↑ Lockard, Elizabeth Song (2014). Human Migration to Space - Springer. Springer Theses. doi:10.1007/978-3-319-05930-3. ISBN   978-3-319-05929-7.
  7. 1 2 3 Caiozzo, V. J.; Haddad, F.; Lee, S.; Baker, M.; Paloski, William; Baldwin, K. M. (2009-07-01). "Artificial gravity as a countermeasure to microgravity: a pilot study examining the effects on knee extensor and plantar flexor muscle groups". Journal of Applied Physiology. 107 (1): 39–46. doi:10.1152/japplphysiol.91130.2008. ISSN   8750-7587. PMC   2711791 . PMID   19286573.
  8. ↑ di Prampero, Pietro E.; Narici, Marco V. (2003-03-01). "Muscles in microgravity: from fibres to human motion". Journal of Biomechanics. 36 (3): 403–412. doi:10.1016/s0021-9290(02)00418-9. ISSN   0021-9290. PMID   12594988.
  9. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Waldie, James M.; Newman, Dava J. (2011-04-01). "A gravity loading countermeasure skinsuit". Acta Astronautica. 68 (7–8): 722–730. Bibcode:2011AcAau..68..722W. doi:10.1016/j.actaastro.2010.07.022.
  10. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Genc, K.O.; Gopalakrishnan, R.; Kuklis, M.M.; Maender, C.C.; Rice, A.J.; Bowersox, K.D.; Cavanagh, P.R. (2010). "Foot forces during exercise on the International Space Station". Journal of Biomechanics. 43 (15): 3020–3027. doi:10.1016/j.jbiomech.2010.06.028. PMID   20728086.
  11. ↑ Mulavara, Ajitkumar P.; Feiveson, Alan H.; Fiedler, James; Cohen, Helen; Peters, Brian T.; Miller, Chris; Brady, Rachel; Bloomberg, Jacob J. (2010-02-05). "Locomotor function after long-duration space flight: effects and motor learning during recovery". Experimental Brain Research. 202 (3): 649–659. doi:10.1007/s00221-010-2171-0. ISSN   0014-4819. PMID   20135100. S2CID   22932863.
  12. 1 2 Fitts, R. H.; Trappe, S. W.; Costill, D. L.; Gallagher, P. M.; Creer, A. C.; Colloton, P. A.; Peters, J. R.; Romatowski, J. G.; Bain, J. L. (2010-09-15). "Prolonged space flight-induced alterations in the structure and function of human skeletal muscle fibres". The Journal of Physiology. 588 (18): 3567–3592. doi:10.1113/jphysiol.2010.188508. ISSN   1469-7793. PMC   2988519 . PMID   20660569.
  13. 1 2 Kobrick, Ryan L.; Dara, Sarita; Burley, John; Gill, Stuart (2006-05-01). "A new countermeasure device for long duration space flights". Acta Astronautica. 58 (10): 523–536. Bibcode:2006AcAau..58..523K. doi:10.1016/j.actaastro.2005.12.013.
  14. 1 2 Duvoisin, MR; Convertino, VA; Buchanan, P; et al. (1989). "Characteristics and preliminary observations of the influence of electromyostimulation on the size and function of human skeletal muscle during 30 days of simulated microgravity". Aviat Space Environ Med. 60 (7): 671–678. PMID   2764851.
  15. ↑ Yoshida, N; Sairyo, K; Sasa, T; et al. (2003). "Electrical stimulation prevents deterioration of the oxidative capacity of disuse-atrophied muscles in rats". Aviat Space Environ Med. 74 (3): 207–211. PMID   12650266.
  16. ↑ Blottner, Dieter; Salanova, Michele (2015). The NeuroMuscular System: From Earth to Space Life Science - Springer. SpringerBriefs in Space Life Sciences. doi:10.1007/978-3-319-12298-4. ISBN   978-3-319-12297-7. S2CID   31909085.
  17. ↑ The Story of Space Station Mir - Springer . Springer Praxis Books. 2005. doi:10.1007/978-0-387-73977-9. ISBN   978-0-387-23011-5.
  18. 1 2 Letier, Pierre; et al. (2010). "DYNASUIT, INTELLIGENT SPACE COUNTERMEASURE SUIT CONCEPT BASED ON NEW ARTIFICIAL MUSCLES TECHNOLOGIES AND BIOFEEDBACK" (PDF). International Conference on Astrodynamics Tools and Techniques. Retrieved 2016-04-15.
  19. ↑ Waldie, James Murray Andrew; Newman, Dava J. (Jul 8, 2014), Gravity-loading body suit , retrieved 2016-04-20
  20. ↑ "Suit up for Skinsuit". Esa.int. 2014-01-10. Retrieved 2017-08-20.
  21. ↑ Attias, Carvil, J., P. (April 2013). "THE EFFECT OF THE GRAVITY LOADING COUNTERMEASURE SKIN SUIT (GLCS) UPON AEROBIC EXERCISE PERFORMANCE". Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  22. ↑ D.S.F. Portree (March 1995). "Mir Hardware Heritage" (PDF). NASA. p. 69. Retrieved 2016-04-17.
  23. ↑ Kendrick, D. P. and D. J. Newman (2014). Modeling the Gravity Loading Countermeaure Skinsuit, 44th International Conference on Environmental Systems.
  24. ↑ "Skinsuit (Skinsuit) - 03.10.16". International Space Station. NASA. 2016-03-10. Retrieved 2016-04-03.
  25. 1 2 Wotring, Virginia E. (2012). Space Pharmacology - Springer. SpringerBriefs in Space Development. Springer. doi:10.1007/978-1-4614-3396-5. ISBN   978-1-4614-3395-8.
  26. ↑ Snow, Dale L. (August 4, 1995). "Dextroamphetamine: a Pharmacologic Countermeasure For Space Motion Sickness and Orthostatic Dysfunction" (PDF). NASA.
  27. ↑ Convertino, Victor A (2002). "Planning strategies for development of effective exercise and nutrition countermeasures for long-duration space flight". Nutrition. 18 (10): 880–888. doi:10.1016/s0899-9007(02)00939-5. PMID   12361783.
  28. ↑ Sandler, Harold (1995). "Artificial Gravity". Acta Astronautica. 35 (4–5): 363–372. Bibcode:1995AcAau..35..363S. doi:10.1016/0094-5765(95)98737-T. PMID   11541476.
  29. ↑ Smith, S. M.; et al. (2009). "Effects of artificial gravity during bed rest on bone metabolism in humans". Journal of Applied Physiology. 107 (1): 47–53. doi:10.1152/japplphysiol.91134.2008. PMC   2711792 . PMID   19074572.
  30. ↑ Kaderka, J.; et al. (2010). "A critical benefit analysis of artificial gravity as a microgravity countermeasure" (PDF). Acta Astronautica. 67 (9–10): 1090–1102. Bibcode:2010AcAau..67.1090K. doi:10.1016/j.actaastro.2010.06.032. hdl: 1721.1/59561 .
  31. ↑ Yang, Yifan; Baker, Michael; Graf, Scott; Larson, Jennifer; Caiozzo, Vincent J. (2007-11-01). "Hypergravity resistance exercise: the use of artificial gravity as potential countermeasure to microgravity". Journal of Applied Physiology. 103 (5): 1879–1887. doi:10.1152/japplphysiol.00772.2007. ISSN   8750-7587. PMID   17872403.
  32. ↑ Yang, Yifan; Kaplan, Adam; Pierre, Mark; Adams, Greg; Cavanagh, Peter; Takahashi, Craig; Kreitenberg, Art; Hicks, James; Keyak, Joyce (2007-01-01). "Space Cycle: A Human-Powered Centrifuge That Can Be Used for Hypergravity Resistance Training". Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine. 78 (1): 2–9. PMID   17225475.
  33. ↑ Caiozzo, Haddad, V., F. (July 2009). "Artificial gravity as a countermeasure to microgravity: a pilot study examining the effects on knee extensor and plantar flexor muscle groups". Journal of Applied Physiology. 107 (1): 39–46. doi:10.1152/japplphysiol.91130.2008. PMC   2711791 . PMID   19286573.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  34. ↑ Kotovskaya, A. R. (2011-05-01). "The problem of artificial gravity in piloted space exploration missions". Acta Astronautica. 17th IAA Humans in Space Symposium. 68 (9–10): 1608–1613. Bibcode:2011AcAau..68.1608K. doi:10.1016/j.actaastro.2009.11.012.
  35. 1 2 Watenpaugh, Donald E.; Breit, Gregory A.; Buckley, Theresa M.; Ballard, Richard E.; Murthy, Gita; Hargens, Alan R. (2004-06-01). "Human cutaneous vascular responses to whole-body tilting, Gz centrifugation, and LBNP". Journal of Applied Physiology. 96 (6): 2153–2160. doi:10.1152/japplphysiol.00198.2003. ISSN   8750-7587. PMID   14766789.
  36. ↑ Akima, Hiroshi; Katayama, Keisho; Sato, Kohei; Ishida, Koji; Masuda, Kazumi; Takada, Hiroki; Watanabe, Yoriko; Iwase, Satoshi (2005-10-01). "Intensive cycle training with artificial gravity maintains muscle size during bed rest". Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine. 76 (10): 923–929. ISSN   0095-6562. PMID   16235874.
  37. ↑ Prampero, Pietro E. di (2000-08-01). "Cycling on Earth, in space, on the Moon". European Journal of Applied Physiology. 82 (5–6): 345–360. doi:10.1007/s004210000220. ISSN   1439-6319. PMID   10985587. S2CID   37505211.
  38. ↑ di Prampero, P. E. (1994-05-01). "The Twin Bikes System for artificial gravity in space". Journal of Gravitational Physiology. 1 (1): P12–14. ISSN   1077-9248. PMID   11538738.
  39. ↑ "NASA - Treadmill with Vibration Isolation and Stabilization System". Nasa.gov. Retrieved 20 August 2017.
  40. ↑ "NASA - Cycle Ergometer with Vibration Isolation and Stabilization System". Nasa.gov. Retrieved 20 August 2017.
  41. ↑ "LSDA". lsda.jsc.nasa.gov. Retrieved 20 August 2017.
  42. ↑ "NASA - Interim Resistive Exercise Device". Nasa.gov. Retrieved 20 August 2017.
  43. ↑ "NASA - Advanced Resistive Exercise Device". Nasa.gov. Retrieved 20 August 2017.
  44. 1 2 3 4 5 6 "ESA Exercise Countermeasures and Related Diagnostics Devices and Technologies" (PDF). Nasa.gov. Retrieved 2016-04-18.
  45. ↑ Macias, B.; Groppo, E.; Eastlack, R.; Watenpaugh, D.; Lee, S.; Schneider, S.; Boda, W.; Smith, S.; Cutuk, A. (2005). "Space Exercise and Earth Benefits". Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology. 6 (4): 305–317. doi:10.2174/1389201054553653. PMID   16101469.
  46. ↑ Mccrory, Lemmon, Jean, David (June 2, 2000). "Evaluation of a treadmill with vibration isolation and stabilization (TVIS) for use on the International Space Station". STAR.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  47. ↑ Schneider, Suzanne M.; Amonette, William E.; Blazine, Kristi; Bentley, Jason; Lee, Stuart M. C.; Loehr, James A.; Moore, Alan D.; Rapley, Michael; Mulder, Edwin R. (2003-11-01). "Training with the International Space Station interim resistive exercise device". Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise. 35 (11): 1935–1945. doi: 10.1249/01.MSS.0000093611.88198.08 . ISSN   0195-9131. PMID   14600562.
  48. ↑ Novotny, Sara C.; Perusek, Gail P.; Rice, Andrea J.; Comstock, Bryan A.; Bansal, Aasthaa; Cavanagh, Peter R. (2013-08-01). "A harness for enhanced comfort and loading during treadmill exercise in space". Acta Astronautica. 89: 205–214. Bibcode:2013AcAau..89..205N. doi:10.1016/j.actaastro.2013.03.010.
  49. ↑ Alkner, B. A.; Tesch, P. A. (2004-07-01). "Efficacy of a gravity-independent resistance exercise device as a countermeasure to muscle atrophy during 29-day bed rest". Acta Physiologica Scandinavica. 181 (3): 345–357. doi:10.1111/j.1365-201X.2004.01293.x. ISSN   0001-6772. PMID   15196095.
  50. ↑ Sylos-Labini, Francesca; Lacquaniti, Francesco; Ivanenko, Yuri P. (2014-08-28). "Human Locomotion under Reduced Gravity Conditions: Biomechanical and Neurophysiological Considerations". BioMed Research International. 2014: 547242. doi: 10.1155/2014/547242 . ISSN   2314-6133. PMC   4163425 . PMID   25247179.
  51. ↑ Lacquaniti, Francesco; Ivanenko, Yuri P.; Sylos-Labini, Francesca; La Scaleia, Vvalentina; La Scaleia, Barbara; Willems, Patrick; Zago, Myrka (2017). "Human Locomotion in Hypogravity: From Basic Research to Clinical Applications". Frontiers in Physiology. 8: 883. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00893 . PMC   5682019 . PMID   29163225.
  52. 1 2 3 Alexander, R. McN.; Jayes, A. S. (1983-09-01). "A dynamic similarity hypothesis for the gaits of quadrupedal mammals". Journal of Zoology. 201 (1): 135–152. doi:10.1111/j.1469-7998.1983.tb04266.x. ISSN   1469-7998.
  53. 1 2 Jacquelin Perry (1992). Gait Analysis: Normal and Pathological Function.Thorofare, New Jersey: SLACK Incorporated. ISBN   978-1-55642-192-1.
  54. ↑ Kram, R., Domingo, A., & Ferris, D. (1997). Effect of reduced gravity on the preferred walk-run transition speed. The Journal of Experimental Biology,200(Pt 4), 821-6.
  55. ↑ Minetti, Alberto (2001). "Walking on Other Planets". Nature. 409 (6819): 467–469. doi: 10.1038/35054166 . PMID   11206528.
  56. ↑ Witt, John K. De; Edwards, W. Brent; Scott-Pandorf, Melissa M.; Norcross, Jason R.; Gernhardt, Michael L. (2014-09-15). "The preferred walk to run transition speed in actual lunar gravity". Journal of Experimental Biology. 217 (18): 3200–3203. doi: 10.1242/jeb.105684 . ISSN   0022-0949. PMID   25232195.
  57. ↑ Donelan, J. M.; Kram, R. (1997). "The effect of reduced gravity on the kinematics of human walking: A test of the dynamic similarity hypothesis for locomotion". Journal of Experimental Biology. 200 (24): 3193–3201. doi:10.1242/jeb.200.24.3193. PMID   9364025.
  58. ↑ Xiu, W., & Ma, Ou. (2015). Study of Human Dynamics in Simulated Reduced-G Environment and Its Applications,ProQuest Dissertations and Theses.
  59. 1 2 3 Carr, Christopher E.; McGee, Jeremy (2009-08-12). "The Apollo Number: Space Suits, Self-Support, and the Walk-Run Transition". PLOS ONE. 4 (8): e6614. Bibcode:2009PLoSO...4.6614C. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0006614 . ISSN   1932-6203. PMC   2719915 . PMID   19672305.
  60. 1 2 Farley, C. T.; McMahon, T. A. (1992). "Energetics of walking and running: insights from simulated reduced-gravity experiments". Journal of Applied Physiology. 73 (6): 2709–2712. doi:10.1152/jappl.1992.73.6.2709. PMID   1490989.
  61. 1 2 3 Carr, Christopher E.; Newman, Dava J. (2008-02-01). "Characterization of a lower-body exoskeleton for simulation of space-suited locomotion". Acta Astronautica. 62 (4–5): 308–323. Bibcode:2008AcAau..62..308C. doi:10.1016/j.actaastro.2007.11.007.
  62. ↑ Griffin, T. M.; et al. (1999). "Walking in simulated reduced gravity: mechanical energy fluctuations and exchange" (PDF). Journal of Applied Physiology. 86 (1): 383–390. doi:10.1152/jappl.1999.86.1.383. PMID   9887153.
  63. 1 2 3 Carr, Christopher E.; Newman, Dava J. (2007-11-01). "Space Suit Bioenergetics: Framework and Analysis of Unsuited and Suited Activity". Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine. 78 (11): 1013–1022. doi:10.3357/ASEM.1952.2007. PMID   18018432.
This page is based on this Wikipedia article
Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply.
Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.