Wearable Tech Revolutionizes Health Monitoring on the ISS, Enhances Astronaut Safety and Research

November 13, 2024
Wearable Tech Revolutionizes Health Monitoring on the ISS, Enhances Astronaut Safety and Research
  • Previous 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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Wearable tech for space station research

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