Wearable Tech Revolutionizes Health Monitoring on the ISS, Enhances Astronaut Safety and Research
November 13, 2024Previous ESA research, known as Thermolab, found that core body temperature increases more rapidly during exercise in microgravity, raising concerns about the long-term health effects on astronauts.
Wearable technology is playing a crucial role in health research, particularly in studies conducted aboard the International Space Station (ISS), where astronauts utilize devices to monitor various health metrics.
These devices are essential for assessing sleep quality, exercise effectiveness, and heart health among astronauts, providing valuable data for understanding their well-being in space.
To ensure astronaut safety during missions, the European Space Agency's (ESA) Active Dosimeter has been instrumental in assessing radiation levels over time.
The ESA is currently investigating body temperature regulation in space through the Thermo-Mini study, utilizing a non-invasive headband monitor to gather data on how various factors affect core temperature.
Wearable monitoring technologies, such as a vest with sensors to track heart rate and breathing during sleep, show promise not only for astronauts but also for patients with sleep disorders on Earth.
Additionally, the AstroRad Vest, tested on the ISS and during NASA's Artemis I mission, aims to protect astronauts from harmful solar radiation, highlighting the importance of such technologies for future lunar missions.
As carbon dioxide buildup in spacecraft can lead to health issues, personal CO2 monitors are being tested to effectively track carbon dioxide levels in enclosed environments, ensuring safe air quality.
Research indicates that spaceflight disrupts sleep patterns, with astronauts sleeping significantly less during missions, prompting investigations into lighting systems that could help maintain their circadian rhythms.
Wearable devices, including fitness trackers and heart rate monitors, assist individuals in tracking health metrics like steps and sleep patterns, promoting healthier lifestyles and identifying potential health issues.
The Canadian Space Agency's EVARM study successfully measured radiation exposure during spacewalks using pocket-sized dosimeters, demonstrating the feasibility of this method for routine monitoring and enhancing astronaut safety.
Summary based on 3 sources
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Sources
NASA • Nov 13, 2024
Wearable Tech for Space Station Research - NASAPhys.org • Nov 13, 2024
Wearable tech for space station researchSpace Daily
Wearable tech for Space Station research