Space tourism is reaching new heights as recent research sheds light on how short trips to space impact the human body. A study published Tuesday examined four space tourists on a three-day SpaceX flight, revealing that their bodies experienced changes akin to those endured by astronauts on extended missions.
The research, which included detailed analyses of blood, saliva, and skin samples, found significant shifts in cells and alterations to the immune system during the flight. However, these changes largely returned to normal months after the tourists returned to Earth, suggesting that brief spaceflights pose minimal long-term health risks.
\"This is the first time we've had a cell-by-cell examination of a crew when they go to space,\" said Chris Mason of Weill Cornell Medicine. The findings, now part of a Nature journals database, provide valuable insights for preparing future space travelers, whether for tourism or other missions.
As opportunities for private space travel expand, understanding the immediate and short-term effects of spaceflight on the human body is crucial. Researchers like Susan Bailey and Afshin Beheshti emphasize that these studies help pave the way for safer and more sustainable space exploration.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
