Aerospace Medicine Commercial Spaceflight Committee

???Pioneering the Future of Food, On Earth and in Space!????? NASA recently shared its insights from space food research with the commercial food industry, opening doors to innovative food solutions that benefit both space missions and life here on Earth. ?? Here are some fascinating examples of food innovations from NASA’s space program that could inspire commercial products: Thermostabilized Meals: These meals undergo heat processing to eliminate microorganisms and extend shelf life, offering safe, shelf-stable meals for both space travelers and emergency preparedness on Earth. Freeze-Dried Foods: Lightweight and shelf-stable, freeze-dried items like fruits and vegetables are perfect for space missions and are increasingly popular for camping and outdoor adventures on Earth. Nutrient-Dense Snacks: NASA’s nutrient-packed bars, designed to meet astronauts’ needs in space, have influenced the development of healthier, more functional snacks for commercial markets. At the Commercial Spaceflight Committee, we’re excited to see how these advancements help enhance safety and well-being for spaceflight participants while transforming food innovation for consumers around the world. Thank you, NASA, for pioneering partnerships that bridge the gap between space and Earth! Interested in our research? Want to collaborate with us? Interested in becoming a member? Fill out the form below https://lnkd.in/gY4w3gTt https://lnkd.in/gctucEFH #CommercialSpaceflight #SpaceFood #AerospaceMedicine #NASA #Innovation #LEOEconomy #Sustainability #SpaceExploration #Axiomspace #VAST #Blueorigin #Virgingalactic #Spacex #Sierranevadacorporation #Aircompany #starlaboasis #Interstellarnutrition

?? Historic Mission to the ISS! ???? ???? ???? ???? Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) is set to take flight, featuring a diverse crew from India, Poland, and Hungary, led by the renowned Commander Peggy Whitson. This mission is a powerful example of international collaboration, bringing together space agencies like ISRO, ESA, and Hungary’s HUNOR program. ? India, through ISRO, sends Shubhanshu Shukla as mission pilot, continuing its space legacy and strengthening ties with NASA. ? ESA backs S?awosz Uznański of Poland, marking his country’s return to space after 40 years, highlighting Poland’s capabilities in space exploration. ? Representing Hungary, Tibor Kapu will launch as the first Hungarian astronaut since 1980, advancing Hungary’s space ambitions through the HUNOR program. This mission underscores the growing global cooperation in space, focusing on scientific research, technology demonstrations, and expanding opportunities in low-Earth orbit for commercial spaceflight! https://lnkd.in/g6zpmZmC #AxiomMission4 #ISRO #ESA #HUNOR #IndiaInSpace #PolandInSpace #HungaryInSpace #SpaceExploration #PeggyWhitson #iss #axiomspace

?? Exploring Spaceflight Health with Groundbreaking RNA Research! ?? The latest research from the JAXA Cell-Free Epigenome Study is shedding new light on how the space environment impacts human health. By analyzing cell-free mitochondrial DNA and RNA from astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS), researchers have discovered mitochondrial dysregulation as a key response to microgravity. This breakthrough reveals potential biomarkers for spaceflight-induced stress, aging, and inflammation, leading to better health monitoring for long-term space exploration. Key findings include: Mitochondrial Stress: Elevated levels of mitochondrial RNA in plasma during spaceflight. Multi-Organ Impact: Plasma RNA shows responses from various tissues, including the brain, muscles, and even the retina. Innovative Liquid Biopsies: Non-invasive liquid biopsies allow for real-time health monitoring in space, without the need for complex tissue biopsies. https://lnkd.in/grU3J5kW This cutting-edge research is a game-changer for space healthcare, offering insights into how we can protect astronauts on future missions to Mars and beyond! #SpaceMedicine #MitochondrialResearch #CommercialSpaceflight #AerospaceMedicine #JAXA #NASA #Biomarkers #HumanSpaceflight #SpaceExploration

?? It was a privilege for the Commercial Spaceflight Committee to present at #ICAM2024, discussing critical health considerations for commercial spaceflight! ??? Our panel covered a comprehensive range of essential topics, including: Gastrointestinal and Nutrition: Addressing digestion and nutrient absorption challenges in space. Cardiology: Examining cardiovascular health and monitoring in microgravity. Dental Health: Managing oral care and health in space conditions. Behavioral Health: Supporting mental well-being and resilience during long-duration missions. Musculoskeletal Health: Preserving bone and muscle strength in reduced gravity. Women’s Health: Exploring unique challenges women face during space missions. ENT: Investigating ear, nose, and throat issues in the space environment. Immunology: Exploring immune system challenges, including immune dysregulation and cytokine shifts. Neuro-Ophthalmology: Addressing vision changes and eye health in microgravity. Pulmonology: Managing respiratory health and function in space environments. A special thank you to Dr. Duncan Hughes, CMO of Virgin Galactic, and our Neuro-Ophthalmology team lead Dr. Edson Oliveira for expertly moderating the panel. Also, heartfelt thanks to Dr. Tamera Averett-Braur, USAF and Dr. Karen Kingenberger, USAF, our Commercial Spaceflight (CSF) leads, for their leadership and guidance. And thank you again to Dr. Olivera for the warm reception to Lisbon, Portugal!???? Together, we are advancing space medicine to ensure the health and safety of all future space explorers! #AerospaceMedicine #SpaceHealth #CommercialSpaceflight #ICAM2024 #SpaceMedicine #NeuroOptho #Cardiology #Portugal #VirginGalactic #HealthInSpace #USAF

?? Exploring Immunology in Commercial Spaceflight at #ICAM2024! ????? Delving into the unique immunological challenges astronauts face in space, from immune dysregulation to cytokine profile shifts, Dr. Satyam Patel presented an immunology scoping review which uncovered crucial insights into how microgravity, radiation, and other spaceflight hazards impact the immune system, helping ensure we’re better prepared for future missions. This research is vital for advancing the safety and health of commercial spaceflight participants! https://www.icam2024.com #AerospaceMedicine #SpaceImmunology #CommercialSpaceflight #ICAM2024 #SpaceHealth #SpaceResearch #FutureMissions #spacex #virgingalactic #axiom #vast

?? Proud to present our Commercial Spaceflight Scoping Review (CSF ScR) methods at #ICAM2024! In Lisbon, Portugal ??? Our review highlights key inclusion and exclusion criteria, focusing on human medical conditions, spaceflight hazards, and astronaut health challenges in environments such as orbital, lunar, planetary, and beyond. This is part of our ongoing effort to advance aerospace medicine and ensure the safety and well-being of all space participants. Exciting times ahead as we dive deeper into understanding the complexities of space health! #AerospaceMedicine #SpaceHealth #CSFScR #ICAM2024 #CommercialSpaceflight #ResearchInnovation #AerospaceSafety

Groundbreaking T Cell Research Heads to the International Space Station Exciting news for aerospace medicine and commercial spaceflight! The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and collaborators are launching a project to study T cells on the International Space Station (ISS). This research could have far-reaching implications for both space travelers and patients on Earth. Key points: ? The project will examine how prolonged microgravity affects T cell biology, including differentiation, activation, memory, and exhaustion. ? Findings could improve cancer treatments and cell therapies. ? MD Anderson researchers, led by Dr. Cassian Yee and Dr. Kunal Rai, are collaborating with Axiom Space, BioServe Space Technologies, Deep Space Biology, and Mongoose Bio. Dr. Cassian Yee, professor of melanoma medical oncology, states: "We are excited to join with talented collaborators who are experienced in biological research and in delivering payloads to deep space in order to leverage the unique research environment of sustained microgravity on the ISS National Laboratory. We look forward to this opportunity to study how T cells are affected by microgravity, identify novel targets and translate these findings into meaningful therapeutic strategies that can improve cellular therapies and enhance life here on Earth." The project involves: ? Two missions to the ISS, with potential for translational phases on Axiom Space's future commercial space station. ? Single-cell sequencing of cryopreserved samples to evaluate epigenetic changes. ? Collaboration with Mongoose Bio to scale discoveries for future cell therapies. As we advance into the era of commercial spaceflight, understanding how the space environment impacts human biology becomes increasingly crucial. This project exemplifies how space-based research can contribute to medical advancements and potentially enhance the safety of future space travelers. This interdisciplinary effort bridges space science and immunology, showcasing the unique research opportunities provided by the ISS. It's a testament to the importance of continued investment in space-based medical research. What are your thoughts on the potential impact of this research on aerospace medicine and commercial spaceflight? https://lnkd.in/g7Pw33k4 #AerospaceMedicine #CommercialSpaceflight #SpaceResearch #Immunology #Axiom

?? Preparing for Mars: Insights from NASA’s Yearlong CHAPEA Mission 1 In a groundbreaking effort to prepare for future missions to Mars, NASA has successfully completed the first CHAPEA (Crew Health and Performance Exploration Analog) mission—a yearlong simulation that immersed four volunteers in an ultra-realistic habitat designed to mimic life on the Red Planet. Led by Commander Kelly Haston, the crew spent 378 days sealed inside a 1,700-square-foot, 3D-printed habitat known as "Mars Dune Alpha," located at the NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston. Their mission was to simulate the physical and psychological challenges of a real Mars mission, including mock Marswalks in a Martian-like environment, tending to a vertical garden, and enduring extended isolation. Key Highlights: - Simulated Marswalks: The crew donned spacesuits and passed through an airlock to enter a simulated Martian environment, complete with red soil and cliffs. These walks were coordinated by the team inside, mirroring the real-life challenges astronauts will face on Mars. - Isolation and Communication: The mission simulated the 20-minute communication delay between Earth and Mars, significantly limiting real-time interaction with loved ones. This aspect of the mission highlighted the emotional challenges of deep space travel, with Commander Haston noting the profound impact of being unable to support family and friends in real-time. - Daily Life: The crew's habitat included crew quarters, common areas, and a crop-growing area where they cultivated tomatoes and peppers. Despite the isolation, the crew maintained strong communication, ate meals together, and managed to stave off boredom by engaging in activities like embroidery. - Research and Data Collection: Throughout the mission, detailed data was collected on the crew’s food intake, sleep patterns, cognitive performance, and physical health. This information is critical for understanding the minimum resources needed to sustain astronauts during a multi-year mission to Mars. - Psychological Impact: One of the most significant challenges identified was the emotional toll of prolonged isolation. Although the crew never went stir-crazy, the psychological impact of being cut off from loved ones was profound, emphasizing the need for robust psychological support in future missions. The next iteration, CHAPEA 2, is scheduled to begin in 2025, continuing NASA’s mission to make Mars exploration a reality. #SpaceExploration #MarsMission #NASA #SpaceHealth #HumanSpaceflight #AerospaceResearch #Icon3d #Jacobs #KBR

?? Exploring the Stability of Medications for Long-Duration Space Missions ?? A recently published research article in Npj Microgravity has highlighted the critical issue of medication stability aboard the International Space Station (ISS). As we prepare for longer-duration missions, such as those to Mars, understanding how long medications remain effective in space is vital. The study analyzed the shelf-lives of medications in the ISS formulary, revealing that over half of them have a terrestrial shelf-life of 36 months or less. For example, Nitroglycerin(used for chest pain) and Promethazine (used for motion sickness) may only remain stable for up to 24 months. Other essential medications, like Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen (common pain relievers), also face similar stability challenges. These findings present significant challenges for missions where resupply isn’t possible, raising concerns about the effectiveness of these medications over the course of extended spaceflights. As we push the boundaries of human space exploration, it's crucial to address these challenges to ensure space travelers have reliable access to effective medications throughout their missions. #SpaceMedicine #AerospaceResearch #PharmaceuticalsInSpace #MissionPlanning #SpaceExploration #npjmicrogravity https://lnkd.in/gEJsqBqe

We're thrilled to announce that our committee will be presenting at the International Congress of Aerospace Medicine (ICAM) 2024 in Lisbon Portugal on October 3rd-5th 2024! Join us as we share our latest research on enhancing the safety and well-being of commercial spaceflight participants through interdisciplinary collaboration. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with global experts and advance the field of aerospace medicine. We look forward to engaging discussions and innovative insights at this prestigious event. #ICAM2024 #AerospaceMedicine #SpaceHealth For more details about ICAM 2024, visit https://icam2024.com/ ?? ? ? ??