Space remains an incredibly complex challenge for the human body. It affects the bones, muscles, heart, eyes and almost all organs. However, we are drawn to explore the Universe, and nearly 700 people have already traveled to space. With the development of private flights, this figure will only grow. But how long can the human body survive in weightlessness?
Records and risks
This year, two Russian cosmonauts set a record for the longest stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS) – 374 days. Such missions allow scientists to study the effects of prolonged exposure to space. And while these studies help improve flight safety, the results raise concerns.
Prolonged exposure to microgravity causes these consequences:
- Loss of bone density: this can increase the risk of fractures.
- Muscle atrophy: muscles weaken due to lack of constant exercise.
- Decreased blood volume: the heart works less efficiently.
- Vision worsening: the change in pressure inside the skull affects the optic nerve.
- Disorientation: it is more difficult for the brain to adapt to weightlessness.
How to prepare for long missions?
NASA and other space agencies are developing ways to minimize these risks as they prepare for long-duration missions, such as to Mars. It is estimated that such a mission would last about three years. This raises new questions: how will the human body survive such conditions, and will it be able to adapt to returning to Earth?
What happens in the worst case scenario?
Experts believe that even with the best training, prolonged isolation in space has its limits. If an astronaut faces an uncertain mission, such as being stranded on the ISS, it could jeopardize his or her health and life.
Understanding these challenges becomes critical as humanity approaches a new era of space exploration. Every astronaut experience is a step toward making space more accessible and safer for future generations.
Time limits for human space travel
“The experience of long-duration missions shows that it is possible to stay in space long enough, especially if the only goal is to survive,” says a professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, vice president of the Human Space Exploration Program and chief scientist of the NASA Human Research Program from 2013 to 2016.
The professor explains that studies have shown that several astronauts have spent more than a year in orbit without serious complications. This is made possible by strict protocols, especially exercise, that prevent muscle and bone degradation. However, the duration of survival depends on mission conditions, countermeasures, and the ability to return to Earth.
Under current conditions, survival in space is possible within 5-10 years. But for long duration missions, where performance after return to Earth is required, the maximum possible duration is about 4 years. However, artificial gravity, reliable radiation shielding, and attention to psychological well-being could extend that time considerably. It is theoretically possible to achieve unlimited time in space under such conditions.
Are the risks justified?
This raises the question: are long-duration space missions worth the risk? Should space agencies invest in hazard mitigation? The long-term effects may take years to manifest themselves. For example, cataracts occur in about 5 years, leukemia in 2, solid tumors in 5, and heart disease in 10. The impact of radiation on cognitive function is still unclear.
Earlier we reported on how the Crew-8 members admitted to a hard adaptation after 235 days in space.
Provided by gizmodo.com
