It is impossible to deny the fact that scientists’ discovery to be able to travel to space is the greatest invention and a stride towards a scientific future. Till date, Spaceflight is the most celebrated humanity’s achievements. The discovery is evidence that science is pushing the limits of technology and human endurance.
However, in the race to explore more of this field, our researchers unveiled astonishing facts about how the human body reacts to the conditions of space. As the journey of spaceflight encounters a series of challenges, this leads to the mixed functions that affect humans like aging of humans and other psychological factors. Let’s delve more into how spaceflight impacts the body of astronauts.
The Clock of Ageing in Spaceflight
Some scientific theory indicates that astronauts age slightly slower in space compared to the people on Earth. This phenomenon of the aging process of astronauts is a result of time dilation which is a consequence of Einstein’s theory of relativity. This theory of Einstein suggests that time is relative and not absolute. Time is influenced by various factors like gravity and velocity.
In simpler words, time moves slower as gravity increases. The European Space Agency (ESA) also justifies the statement in a tweet that after spending six months on the ISS (International Space Center), astronauts have aged about 0.005 seconds less than the rest of us.
Vision Related Problems Post-Spaceflight
Many astronauts claim of experiencing vision related problems following their time spent in the space. This condition is referred to as Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome (SANS). In this condition, the human body faces blur vision and even change in the shape of the eye.
The reason behind this condition is due to the shifts in fluid and accelerated pressure within the head. In some cases, astronauts reported that their vision never became normal even after returning to the Earth. This also raises concerns about the long-term issues that scientist face regarding their eye health.
Exposure to Radiations
Space is full of cosmic radiation, which is hazardous to human health. Talking about Earth, here we are shielded from such harmful radiations and magnetic field. Meanwhile in space, astronauts work closer with higher levels of radiation. This results in the damage of their DNA and also increases the risk of cancer and other diseases.
Keeping in mind the safety of the astronauts, space agencies are working and exploring ways to protect their astronauts.
Suppression in Immune System
The extended and long time spent in space compromises with the immune system of the astronauts. Many have claimed that they experience immune suppression, which make them more vulnerable to infections. This also affects the functionality of immune cells, making it difficult for their bodies to fight with the diseases and harmful microorganisms.
Changes in Cardiovascular Health
The spaceflight journey of astronauts also affects the cardiovascular system. According to the study, the heart does not require a hard pumping of blood. This process leads to a decreased heart muscle mass and weakening of cardiovascular system over time.
When astronauts return back to the Earth, they experience orthostatic intolerance. This condition results in difficulty in standing due to heart’s inability to efficiently pump blood.
The above-mentioned conditions indicate that human body is not naturally fitted for space conditions. The atmosphere, gravity level, radiations and many elements of space are different compared to Earth. However, continuous discovery and explorations are finding ways to redefine the astronauts’ space suits that will protect them from such conditions.
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Naina Jaggi is an author deeply rooted in Journalism, mainly writing on lifestyle, entertainment, travel, politics and financial markets. This diverse experience has allowed her to blend rich details with engaging narratives that capture the essence of various worlds. When she is not crafting tales, you’ll find her immersed in music and enjoying the company of dogs. She is also into K-dramas, thriller and horror movies that fuel her imagination, bringing the same spark to her stories.
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