Impact of Microgravity on Muscles Being Studied Aboard the ISS
On August 27, Danish astronaut Andreas Mogensen became the first European to pilot the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS). He was also selected as a participant in an experiment aimed at studying the effects of microgravity on the muscular system. This information was reported by Space magazine.
Over the next six months, Mogensen will conduct over 30 experiments, including 3D printing in space, supporting astronauts' mental well-being through calming virtual reality videos, and photographing thunderclouds on Earth to better understand these phenomena. However, one experiment has captured the attention of scientists due to its potential to enhance health not only for astronauts but also for people on Earth.
During extended space missions, astronauts encounter challenges related to muscle loss, prompting researchers to develop studies seeking methods to maintain the physical fitness of cosmonauts in space. The utilization of neuro-muscular electrical stimulation (NMES) techniques could contribute to mitigating this negative phenomenon. This method is already employed on Earth for the rehabilitation of patients who have experienced prolonged physical inactivity. While NMES has not yet been tested in space, its benefits are anticipated to be demonstrated during future space missions.
Andreas Mogensen is participating in the NMES experiment. He is part of the control group, which does not receive electrical stimulation but undergoes measurements that will allow a comparison of his muscle condition before and after the spaceflight. Another group of astronauts will receive electrostimulation, and the results of both groups will be compared. This novel method could complement the physical exercises already implemented on the ISS, reducing resource consumption. Utilizing NMES might prove to be more efficient by minimizing resource usage, and it could serve as an additional system that complements the daily workout routines of astronauts.
Currently, this method does not exhibit known long-term safety issues, although certain limitations exist. Some muscles might not respond fully to stimulation, and the impact of electrostimulation on organs such as the skeletal and cardiovascular systems requires further investigation. Additional research is planned to determine how this method will affect other astronauts.