How astronauts stay healthy and fit in space

Space has never been an easy place to live. Going into space and living in microgravity for long periods of time has many effects on the human body, from vision problems to fluid accumulation in the upper body. While the zero gravity that allows astronauts to spin, turn, and float in the air may seem fun, the lack of gravity causes the muscles in the body to begin to weaken because they are not used as often.

To combat the loss of muscle mass and bone density that comes with living in zero gravity for long periods of time, astronauts must exercise at least an hour a day. In fact, scientific research into how to protect human health in space is one of the main goals of scientists operating the International Space Station (ISS). Every year, a series of experiments are conducted on the ISS to assess the physical and mental health of astronauts working continuously in space.

One important area of ​​research that is often heavily invested in is the development of health monitoring systems that do not cause inconvenience to astronauts while they are working. One example is the Bio-Monitor system developed by the Canadian Space Agency. This is essentially a smart shirt with built-in sensors that can measure factors such as pulse, blood pressure, breathing rate and skin temperature. There is also a headband to monitor blood oxygen levels. Currently, this system is being tested on the ISS, with the hope that it can be used not only for astronauts but also on Earth for medical purposes, sports research and telemedicine in the future.

How astronauts stay healthy and fit in space
CSA astronaut David Saint-Jacques wearing the Bio-Monitor health sensor shirt and headband.

Myotones, another idea from the European Space Agency, are essentially small devices that help measure muscle stiffness. They could be used to test the effectiveness of astronauts' training programs, by ensuring that no important muscle groups are being left behind and could deteriorate.

However, it is not just physical problems that can affect astronauts. Cognitive and sensory functions can also be affected by the zero-gravity environment, so this aspect also needs to be closely monitored.

This is done through systems such as motor control tests, which are measured through complex simulations such as driving or flying. For example, a simulated driving task requires the astronaut to be able to perceive obstacles and react to them in the right way in space and time, as well as perform multiple tasks at the same time.

How astronauts stay healthy and fit in space
CSA astronaut David Saint-Jacques moderates a session for VECTION.

Then there are more advanced measurements like VECTION, which looks at how being in microgravity affects people’s perception of motion. On Earth, we can use signals from the vestibular system to help us judge where an object is, but astronauts have to adapt to the lack of gravity. This experiment uses head-mounted displays to test whether astronauts can accurately judge things like the height of an object, even without gravity cues.

Sign up and earn $1000 a day ⋙

Leave a Comment

All about iOS 26

All about iOS 26

Apple has introduced iOS 26 – a major update with a brand new frosted glass design, smarter experiences, and improvements to familiar apps.

Yoga exercises to treat insomnia

Yoga exercises to treat insomnia

Yoga can provide many health benefits, including better sleep. Because yoga can be relaxing and restorative, its a great way to beat insomnia after a busy day.

What is the flower of the other shore? Meaning and legend of the flower of the other shore

What is the flower of the other shore? Meaning and legend of the flower of the other shore

The flower of the other shore is a unique flower, carrying many unique meanings. So what is the flower of the other shore, is the flower of the other shore real, what is the meaning and legend of the flower of the other shore?

Healthy snacks that help you lose weight

Healthy snacks that help you lose weight

Craving for snacks but afraid of gaining weight? Dont worry, lets explore together many types of weight loss snacks that are high in fiber, low in calories without making you try to starve yourself.

What to do when you have trouble sleeping?

What to do when you have trouble sleeping?

Prioritizing a consistent sleep schedule and evening routine can help improve the quality of your sleep. Heres what you need to know to stop tossing and turning at night.

How to add a printer to Windows 10

How to add a printer to Windows 10

Adding a printer to Windows 10 is simple, although the process for wired devices will be different than for wireless devices.

The most commonly deficient nutrients in the diet

The most commonly deficient nutrients in the diet

Diet is important to our health. Yet most of our meals are lacking in these six important nutrients.

How to get beautiful nails quickly

How to get beautiful nails quickly

You want to have a beautiful, shiny, healthy nail quickly. The simple tips for beautiful nails below will be useful for you.

The best laptops for students in 2025

The best laptops for students in 2025

Students need a specific type of laptop for their studies. It should not only be powerful enough to perform well in their chosen major, but also compact and light enough to carry around all day.

Ways to reduce the risk of birth defects in the fetus

Ways to reduce the risk of birth defects in the fetus

Birth defects are something no one wants. Although they cannot be completely prevented, you can take the following steps to reduce the risk of birth defects in your baby.

How to check RAM and check RAM errors on your computer with the highest accuracy rate

How to check RAM and check RAM errors on your computer with the highest accuracy rate

As you know, RAM is a very important hardware part in a computer, acting as memory to process data and is the factor that determines the speed of a laptop or PC. In the article below, WebTech360 will introduce you to some ways to check for RAM errors using software on Windows.

Top 5 best automatic home coffee makers

Top 5 best automatic home coffee makers

The automatic home coffee maker is a modern and professional product, bringing you and your family delicious cups of coffee with just a few quick steps.

Difference between regular TV and Smart TV

Difference between regular TV and Smart TV

Smart TVs have really taken the world by storm. With so many great features and the ability to connect to the Internet, technology has changed the way we watch TV.

Why doesnt the freezer have a light but the refrigerator does?

Why doesnt the freezer have a light but the refrigerator does?

Refrigerators are familiar appliances in families. Refrigerators usually have 2 compartments, the cool compartment is spacious and has a light that automatically turns on every time the user opens it, while the freezer compartment is narrow and has no light.

2 Ways to Fix Network Congestion That Slows Down Wi-Fi

2 Ways to Fix Network Congestion That Slows Down Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi networks are affected by many factors beyond routers, bandwidth, and interference, but there are some smart ways to boost your network.