Cognitive assessments were conducted using ten subtests measuring domains such as processing speed, working memory, and attention at five key points: before, during, and after their missions.

Certain cognitive domains, particularly processing speed and attention, were found to be more susceptible to stress, mirroring effects observed in stressful conditions on Earth.

During a six-month mission, astronauts are exposed to 80 to 160 mSv of radiation, significantly higher than the 2 mSv they would receive annually on Earth.

As NASA prepares for future missions to the Moon and Mars, understanding the cognitive effects of long-duration spaceflight is essential, especially with challenges like increased radiation exposure and communication delays.

The study's findings provide valuable data for future space missions, particularly as astronauts gear up for deeper space exploration.

Space travel introduces extreme stressors, including radiation and microgravity, which can temporarily affect cognitive functions.

Importantly, these cognitive changes did not persist after returning to Earth, indicating no significant long-term impairment.

While processing speed, working memory, and attention were slower in space compared to Earth, the accuracy of responses remained consistent.

A recent study from NASA's Behavioral Health and Performance Laboratory examined cognitive performance changes in 25 astronauts who spent an average of six months aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

The study found that, despite some minor slowdowns in cognitive tasks, astronauts did not experience significant cognitive impairment or neurodegenerative decline during their time in space.

While the study identified certain cognitive vulnerabilities, it did not determine the reasons behind these changes or their impact on astronauts' operational performance.

Overall, the research suggests that the brain may cope well with microgravity, alleviating concerns for future missions.