Maintaining Good Health in Space: Q&A with Former Astronaut Mike Massimin

Summary

Former astronaut Mike Massimin discusses the importance of maintaining good health in space. Astronauts need to be in good physical shape to be able to work effectively in the microgravity environment of space. In space, exercise is crucial to prevent the loss of bone and muscle mass. There are also medical procedures and medications available on board, and mental health is taken seriously in space. Returning to Earth brings about physical changes, which can cause lightheadedness and a drop in blood pressure.

Table of Contents

• Importance of Good Health in Space
• Medical Exams and Quarantine
• Exercise in Space
• Medical Care and Procedures
• Motion Sickness and Mental Health
• Returning to Earth
• Radiation Exposure and Physical Preparation

Introduction

Space exploration has been a human achievement that has advanced significantly in the past century. With technology allowing us to venture farther and farther away from Earth, the importance of being prepared for spaceflight, both physically and mentally, becomes increasingly important. One of the leading experts on this topic is former astronaut, Mike Massimin. Massimin has flown on two space shuttle missions and performed four spacewalks during his career. He was kind enough to sit down with us and answer some questions about how astronauts maintain their health while in space.

Importance of Good Health in Space

Question: Why is maintaining good health so important for astronauts in space?

Mike Massimin: Astronauts need to be in good physical shape to be able to perform their duties effectively in the microgravity environment of space. Vibrations can cause experiments to fail, and being healthy and strong ensures that an astronaut can work efficiently. Additionally, if someone gets sick or is injured in space, there is no immediate medical care available, and a medical emergency could threaten the entire mission. Moreover, staying healthy helps prevent depression, which could negatively impact performance.

Medical Exams and Quarantine

Question: What kind of medical exams and screenings do astronauts undergo before going to space?

Mike Massimin: Before going to space, astronauts undergo extensive medical exams and screenings. These exams include a full physical, dental checkup, blood tests, MRIs, and other imaging tests. This is to identify any underlying medical conditions that could pose a risk to the astronaut or compromise the mission. Additionally, crew members can be quarantined to prevent illness or infection in space.

Exercise in Space

Question: How do astronauts exercise in space, and why is it important?

Mike Massimin: Exercise is crucial to maintain good physical condition during a zero-gravity environment. To prevent the loss of muscle and bone mass, astronauts perform resistance exercises using pulleys and springs, and ride exercise bikes and treadmills. Astronauts cannot use weights since the weightlessness of space makes weightlifting ineffective. Exercise also helps prevent and treat motion sickness and aids in reducing stress levels. Prior to a space mission, physical conditioning is a significant part of an astronaut’s routine.

Medical Care and Procedures

Question: What kind of medical care is available on board for astronauts, and how are medical procedures performed in space?

Mike Massimin: Basic medical procedures can be done with a medical kit on board the spacecraft, and at least two trained medical officers are always present to provide medical care if needed. However, major surgeries are not practical in space and would require the person to be deorbited to Earth. Medications are available on board as well, but their use is strictly regulated. Each crew member is trained to perform basic first-aid procedures, and emergency procedures are planned and practiced with the entire crew.

Motion Sickness and Mental Health

Question: Do astronauts experience motion sickness, and how is mental health addressed in space?

Mike Massimin: Almost everyone in space experiences motion sickness, but it is more like an adaptation rather than an illness. There are “emesis bags” that can be used to contain vomit if needed. Mental health is treated seriously, and crew members have access to mental health professionals while in space. It is important to maintain contact with Earth through email, phone calls, or even Skype, as this helps to provide psychological support and maintain performance.

Returning to Earth

Question: What changes happen to an astronaut’s body upon returning to Earth?

Mike Massimin: When an astronaut returns to Earth, there are physical changes that happen to the body. For example, the spine tends to settle, and there is a redistribution of bodily fluids that can cause lightheadedness and a drop in blood pressure. Hydration is crucial before returning to Earth, and astronauts need to move slowly to readjust to gravity. The re-entry can be jarring, and astronauts need to be prepared for the physical challenges that come with returning to Earth.

Radiation Exposure and Physical Preparation

Question: What kind of physical preparation is needed for astronauts before entering space, and how are they protected from radiation exposure?

Mike Massimin: It is recommended for astronauts to be in good physical condition before entering space. Heavy lifting should be avoided until approved by the flight surgeon. Astronauts are also equipped with shielding materials and dosimeters, which measure their radiation exposure. Minimizing exposure to radiation is critical, and the spacecraft is designed to shield astronauts from the harmful effects of space radiation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, maintaining good health in space is critical for astronauts to perform effectively on their mission. Medical care and procedures, exercise equipment, and medications are available on board, and mental health is treated as a significant priority. As space missions become longer and more demanding, we can expect that the importance of maintaining good health will only increase. By understanding the unique medical challenges faced by astronauts in space, we can ensure that they are prepared for a safe and successful mission.