Search Results (392)

Digital twins are increasingly utilized across all lifecycle stages of physical entities. Augmented reality (AR) offers real-time immersion into three-dimensional (3D) data, which provides an immersive experience with dynamic, high-quality, and multi-dimensional digital twins. A robust and customizable data platform is essential to create scalable 3D digital twins; Universal Scene Description (USD) provides these necessary qualities. Given the potential for integrating immersive AR and 3D digital twins, we developed a software application to bridge the gap between multi-modal AR immersion and USD-based digital twins. Our application provides real-time, multi-user AR immersion into USD-based digital twins, making it suitable for time-critical tasks and workflows. AR digital twin software is currently being tested and evaluated in an application we are developing to train astronauts. Our work demonstrates the feasibility of integrating immersive AR with dynamic 3D digital twins. AR-enabled digital twins have the potential to be adopted in various real-time, time-critical, multi-user, and multi-modal workflows. Full article

Establishing a sustainable human presence on the Moon and Mars will require the use of locally available resources for construction. A binder material similar to concrete is a promising candidate, provided that its production and performance under reduced gravity can be reliably understood. Previous microgravity investigations demonstrated the feasibility of mixing cementitious materials in space but produced irregular or low-quality specimens that limited standardized mechanical testing. To address these limitations, the MASON (Material Science on Solidification of Concrete) team developed the first-generation MASON Concrete Mixer (MCM), which enabled the safe production of cylindrical specimens aboard the International Space Station (ISS). However, its fully manual operation introduced variability and required significant astronaut time. Building on this foundation, the development of an automated MCM prototype is presented in this study. It integrates motorized mixing and programmable process control into the established containment architecture. This system enables reproducible specimen production by eliminating operator-dependent variations while reducing crew workload. In comparison to manually mixed samples, the automated MCM demonstrated reduced variability in the tested concrete properties. The automated MCM represents a first step toward autonomous space instrumentation for high-quality materials research and provides a scalable path to uncrewed missions and future extraterrestrial construction technologies. Full article

Lunar dust remains one of the most critical unresolved challenges to long-duration lunar missions. Its sharp, abrasive, and electrostatically charged particles are easily inhaled and can penetrate deep into the lungs, reaching the bloodstream and the brain. Despite airlocks and HEPA filtration systems, dust will inevitably infiltrate lunar habitats and threaten astronaut health. We present a novel patent protected helmet design. This system uses a multilayered, synergistic mitigation approach combining mechanical and electrostatic defenses. The mechanical system delivers HEPA-filtered, ionized air across the user’s face, while the electrostatic barrier repels charged particles away from the respiratory zone. These two systems work together to prevent dust from entering the user’s breathing space. Designed for use inside lunar habitats, this helmet represents a potential solution to an unaddressed, life-threatening problem. It allows astronauts to eat, talk, and sleep while maintaining a protected respiratory zone and provides targeted inhalation-level protection in an environment where dust exposure is otherwise unavoidable. This concept is presented at Technology Readiness Level 2 (TRL 2) to prompt early engagement and feedback from the scientific and engineering communities. Full article

Spaceflight imposes unique physiological stressors that profoundly disrupt immune regulation, including impaired lymphocyte activation, latent viral reactivation, and chronic low-grade inflammation. While structured exercise is the cornerstone countermeasure for musculoskeletal and cardiovascular health, current protocols rarely integrate immune endpoints into their design. This review aims to synthesize current evidence on the immunological effects of exercise in spaceflight and propose a novel framework for immune-focused physical activity guidelines tailored to long-duration missions. Evidence indicates that exercise intensity and modality critically determine immune outcomes. Acute strenuous exercise may transiently suppress immunity via cortisol and reactive oxygen species pathways, whereas chronic moderate-to-vigorous training enhances immune surveillance, reduces systemic inflammation, and supports T-cell and NK-cell function. Exerkines such as IL-15, IL-7, and irisin emerge as central mediators of exercise-induced immunomodulation, with potential applications for spaceflight countermeasures. Incorporating immune health into exercise guidelines represents a necessary paradigm shift for astronaut care. A structured framework—emphasizing aerobic, resistance, and HIIT modalities; moderate-to-vigorous intensity; daily training; immune biomarker monitoring; and integration with nutrition and sleep—can enhance resilience against infection, viral reactivation, and cancer risk. Immune-focused countermeasures will be essential to safeguard astronaut health and ensure mission success on future deep-space expeditions. Full article

A systematic review was conducted to assess the effects of microgravity and space radiation on astronauts’ oral health. This review aimed to determine if these conditions increase the risk of dental and periodontal diseases, identify pre-mission dental care strategies, and specify relevant dental emergencies for astronauts to manage during missions. Following PRISMA guidelines, the review was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42023472765). Databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and OVID Medline were searched. Of the 13 studies identified, 7 were eligible for qualitative synthesis. The included studies revealed that space conditions compromise oral health. Findings indicate changes in saliva composition, with a significant decline in salivary lysozyme levels during missions lasting 28 to 84 days. Salivary IgA levels also increased before and peaked after flights (microgravity alters fluid shear and protein folding). Viral reactivation was a key finding, with latent viruses such as Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and varicella zoster virus (VZV) being reactivated during missions (immune suppression and gene expression shifts under spaceflight stress). Data from a study found that 50% of crew members shed viruses in their saliva or urine, and 38% tested positive for herpesviruses. The included studies also documented alterations in the oral microbiome, including increased gastrointestinal and decreased nasal microbial diversity. This suggests alterations in salivary biomarkers, viral shedding, and microbiome changes in astronauts during long-duration missions. These changes appear associated with immune dysregulation and stress, but causality remains uncertain due to observational designs, small heterogeneous samples, and confounding factors. Although current evidence is indicative rather than definitive, these findings highlight the need for preventive dental measures prior to missions and preparedness for managing oral emergencies in-flight. Future studies should address the mechanistic separation of microgravity and radiation effects, with implications for upcoming Moon and Mars missions. Full article

This paper presents a power-centric systems-engineering approach for PlanarSats and for atto-, and femto-class spacecraft where surface-limited power dominates design. We review agency practices (The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), European Space Agency (ESA), Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)) and the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) framework, then extend them with refined low-power subcategories and a log-linear method for selecting phase- and class-appropriate power contingencies. The method is applied to historical and conceptual PlanarSats to show how contingencies translate into required array area, allowable incidence angles, and duty cycle, linking power sizing to geometry and operations. We define the operational power envelope as the range of satellite orientations and conditions under which generated power meets or exceeds mission requirements. Consistent with agency guidance, sizing is performed to the maximum expected value (MEV) (CBE plus contingency); when bounding or stress analyses are needed, we report the maximum possible value (MPV) (Maximum Possible Value) by applying justified system-level margins to the MEV. Results indicate that disciplined, phase-aware contingency selection materially reduces power-related risk and supports reliable, scalable PlanarSat missions under severe physical constraints. Full article

Human engagement in extreme activities, from spaceflight to deep-sea diving and extreme sports, presents unique physiological challenges. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying adaptations to these demands is crucial for developing strategies to enhance human performance and resilience in such environments. This review integrates multi-omics data across a range of extreme phenotypes, including astronauts, scuba divers, acute alcohol consumers, long-haul flight passengers, bodybuilders, and simulation racers. We analyze current literature in genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, metabolomic, and metagenomic studies to identify common and phenotype-specific adaptations, highlighting potential biomarkers and pathways associated with resilience in harsh conditions. This integrated approach offers insights into human adaptability and provides a foundation for developing personalized strategies to mitigate risks and enhance performance in extreme environments, with particular relevance to extended spaceflight. Full article

The rapid development of spacecraft on-orbit services has increased the requirements for docking technology, especially for large-scale payloads that exceed the launch envelope. Docking technology based on astronaut extravehicular activities is one of the most promising directions for on-orbit services. In view of this, this paper designs and characterizes a handheld double-point docking mechanism for assembling large-scale payloads that is suitable for extravehicular activity (EVA) in dual-astronaut collaborative operations. It achieves the functional decoupling of docking, locking, unlocking, and separation throughout the whole process. The mechanism also has excellent design for human factors engineering, allowing astronauts to change hands, operate with one hand, and apply limited force. The mechanism adopts a dual-point probe–drogue configuration, while the misalignment tolerance design guarantees the docking accuracy and the operating range, and forms a rigid structural connection through a force amplification mechanism. Theoretical analysis and numerical simulations are implemented to estimate the dynamics, statics, and kinematics of the docking process. Corresponding experiments of the prototype are also conducted, including high–low temperature dynamics, docking tests, and kinematic tolerance experiments. The experiments validate the finite element analysis and verify the actual performance of the mechanism. The designed handheld dual-point docking mechanism was successfully applied for the first time by the Shenzhou 15 crew on China’s Space Station in March 2023. This paves a new road for spacecraft on-orbit service of large-scale payloads by EVAs, providing guidance as well as a technical foundation for the on-orbit construction of large spacecraft in the future. Full article

Spaceflight and microgravity (μg) environments induce numerous cardiovascular changes that affect cardiac structure and function, and understanding these effects is essential for astronaut health and tissue engineering in space. This review compiles and analyzes over 30 years of research on the impact of real and simulated μg on cardiomyocytes. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across five databases, and 62 eligible studies involving cardiac cells under μg or spaceflight conditions were compiled and analyzed. Despite the great heterogeneity in terms of cardiac model, microgravity platform, and exposure duration, multiple studies consistently reported alterations in Ca²⁺ handling, metabolism, contractility, and gene expression. Three-dimensional human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocyte (HiPSC-CM) models generally showed enhanced tissue maturation and proliferation parameters, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits, while 2D models mostly exhibited stress-related dysfunction. In vivo simulated microgravity studies, such as the hindlimb unloading (HU) model, show structural and functional cardiac remodeling, and real μg studies confirmed various effects seen under the HU model in multiple rodent species. Thus, μg exposure consistently induces cardiac changes at the cellular and molecular level, while model choice, microgravity platform, and exposure duration critically influence the outcomes. Full article

Background: The Space Omics and Medical Atlas (SOMA) is an extensive database containing gene expression information from samples collected during the short-duration Inspiration4 spaceflight mission in 2021. Given our prior understanding of the genetic basis for cardiovascular diseases in spaceflight, including orthostatic intolerance and cardiac deconditioning, we aimed to characterize changes in differential gene expression among astronauts using SOMA-derived data and curated cardiovascular pathways. Methods: Using the KEGG 2021 database, we curated a list of genes related to cardiovascular adaptations in spaceflight, focusing on pathways such as fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis, lipid metabolism, arrhythmogenic ventricular hypertrophy, and cardiac muscle contraction. Genes were cross-matched to spaceflight-relevant datasets from the Open Science Data Repository (OSDR). Differential expression analysis was performed using DESeq2 (v1.40.2, R) with normalization by median-of-ratios, paired pre-/post-flight covariates, and log2 fold change shrinkage using apeglm. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were defined as |log2FC| ≥ 1 and FDR < 0.05 (Benjamini–Hochberg correction). Module score analyses were conducted across SOMA cell types to confirm conserved cardiac adaptation genes. Results: A total of 185 spaceflight-relevant genes were analyzed. Statistically significant changes were observed in immune-related cardiovascular pathways, particularly within monocytes and T cells. Persistent upregulation of arrhythmogenic genes such as GJA1 was noted at post-flight day 82. WikiPathways enrichment revealed additional pathways, including focal adhesion, insulin signaling, and heart development. Conclusions: Short-duration spaceflight induces significant gene expression changes that are relevant to cardiovascular disease risk. These changes are mediated largely through immune signaling and transcriptional regulation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Findings highlight the need for tailored countermeasures and longitudinal monitoring in future long-duration missions. Full article

The number of female astronauts participating in space missions is increasing, and concerns about the impact of spaceflight on reproductive health have emerged. Space radiation and microgravity pose potential threats to ovarian reserve and uterine function, but data on human female reproductive health in space remain scarce. This review explores current evidence from both real and simulated space conditions, including animal studies and ground-based cosmic radiation models. The relevant literature on cosmic radiation, fertility preservation strategies, and gynecological risk management in spaceflight was analyzed to provide a comprehensive synthesis. Space radiation might damage ovarian follicles and impair folliculogenesis, potentially leading to premature ovarian failure and microgravity might alter endocrine function. While human data are lacking, murine and in vitro model studies suggest significant reproductive risks. Embryo/oocyte and ovarian tissue cryopreservation are currently the most viable fertility preservation strategies. Shielding technologies, radioprotective agents, and hormonal modulation may offer adjunct protection. In conclusions, fertility counseling and preservation should become integral to pre-mission planning for female astronauts of reproductive age. A personalized approach, accounting for individual reproductive goals, age and mission duration, is essential. Further research is urgently needed to understand the reproductive effects of deep space travel and to develop targeted protective strategies. Full article

Despite notable progress in cancer therapy, immune evasion remains a major obstacle to effective treatment outcomes. In the context of spaceflight, astronauts are exposed to unique environmental stressors—particularly microgravity and radiation—that profoundly affect cellular and immune homeostasis. Emerging evidence suggests that microgravity alters key cellular processes, including proliferation, apoptosis, adhesion, and oncogenic signaling pathways such as NF-κB and ERK1/2. Concurrently, microgravity (µg) disrupts immune regulation, potentially facilitating both tumor progression and treatment resistance. Of particular concern is the upregulation of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs), especially HERV-K and HERV-W, under µg conditions, which may exacerbate inflammatory responses and immune system dysregulation. While some studies indicate that µg may impair tumor growth, others reveal enhanced immune evasion and reduced antitumor immunity. Importantly, insights from µg research extend beyond space medicine and provide translational opportunities for terrestrial oncology, including the development of physiologically relevant 3D tumor models for drug screening, the identification of mechano-sensitive pathways (FAK/RhoA, YAP/TAZ) as therapeutic targets, and novel immunotherapeutic strategies involving epigenetic modulation and checkpoint inhibition. This review critically examines the dual role of µg in modulating cancer progression and immune function. We synthesize findings on how µg shapes immune responses, alters tumor–immune system interactions, and impacts the efficacy of immunotherapeutic approaches. Finally, we highlight translational opportunities and challenges for optimizing cancer immunotherapy and precision oncology in both spaceflight and Earth-based environments. Full article

(1) Background: Over the years, technology and space missions have advanced, although the development of potential functional food and food supplements must be improved for maintaining astronauts’ health and helping them overcome space-specific challenges during long missions. (2) Scope and approach: Using a review approach, this study aimed to investigate the potential of functional food to counteract radiation and microgravity spaceflight-related health problems. (3) Results: Microgravity and space radiation affect the body’s biochemical processes and increase levels of reactive oxygen species, which may lead to health problems, including musculoskeletal deconditioning, cardiovascular degeneration, disruptions in gastrointestinal health, ocular problems, alterations to the immune system, and hormonal imbalances, among others. In addition to medical care, functional food plays a key role as a countermeasure against space-induced physiological issues. Previous research showed that functional food rich in flavonoids, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, antioxidant compounds, proteins, probiotics, or prebiotics strengthens the immune system and reduces risks associated with long spaceflights, such as bone density loss, muscle atrophy, oxidative stress, and other health alterations. (4) Conclusions: Despite the fundamental role of functional food in spaceflights, the main challenges remain in preserving and packaging these foods to ensure their safety on long space missions. Future innovations include 3D food printing, space algae cultivation, and novel preservation technologies. Full article

Future planetary exploration missions will rely heavily on efficient human–robot interaction to ensure astronaut safety and maximize scientific return. In this context, digital twins offer a promising tool for planning, simulating, and optimizing extravehicular activities. This study presents the development and evaluation of a digital twin for the AMADEE-24 analog Mars mission, organized by the Austrian Space Forum and conducted in Armenia in March 2024. Alternative local positioning methods were evaluated to enhance the system’s utility in Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)-denied environments. The digital twin integrates telemetry from the Aouda space suit simulators, inertial measurement unit motion capture (IMU-MoCap), and sensor data from the Intuitive Rover Operation and Collecting Samples (iROCS) rover. All nine experiment runs were reconstructed successfully by the developed digital twin. A comparative analysis of localization methods found that Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM)-based rover positioning and IMU-MoCap localization of the astronaut matched Global Positioning System (GPS) performance. Adaptive Cluster Detection showed significantly higher deviations compared to the previous GNSS alternatives. However, the IMU-MoCap method was limited by discontinuous segment-wise measurements, which required intermittent GPS recalibration. Despite these limitations, the results highlight the potential of alternative localization techniques for digital twin integration. Full article

(1) Background: Evidence from non-human animal and spaceflight analog studies have suggested that traveling to outer space could have a significant impact on the structural properties of the hippocampus, a brain region within the medial temporal lobe that is critical for learning and memory. Here, we tested this hypothesis in a group of astronauts who participated in a six-month mission in the International Space Station (ISS). (2) Methods: We collected magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans from a sample of 17 (9 males, 8 females) astronauts before and after the ISS mission, and calculated percent gray matter volume changes in the whole hippocampus and its (anterior, body, and posterior) subregions in both hemispheres. (3) Following the six-month mission in the ISS, we found a significantly decreased volume in the whole left hippocampus; in addition, when looking at subregions separately, we detected a significantly decreased volume in the anterior subregion of the left hippocampus and the body subregion of the right hippocampus. We also found a significantly decreased volume in the whole right hippocampus of male astronauts as compared to female astronauts. (4) Conclusions: This study, providing the very first evidence of hippocampal volumetric changes in astronauts following a six-month mission to the ISS, could have significant implications for cognitive performance during future long-duration spaceflights. Full article