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Adaptation to Space: An IntroductionThe cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems are normally exposed to gradients of blood pressure and weight on Earth. These gradients increase blood pressure and tissue weight in dependent tissues of the body. Exposure to actual and simulated microgravity causes blood and tissue fluid to shift from the legs to the head. Studies of humans in space have documented facial edema, space motion sickness, decreased plasma volume, muscle atrophy, and loss of bone strength. Return of astronauts to Earth is accompanied by orthostatic intolerance, decreased neuromuscular coordination, and reduced exercise capacity. These factors decrease performance during descent from orbit and increase risk during emergency egress from the spacecraft. Models of simulated microgravity include 6 deg head-down tilt, immersion, and prolonged horizontal bedrest. Head-down tilt is the most accepted model and studies using this model of up to one year have been performed in Russia. Animal models which offer clear insights into the role of gravity on vertebrates include the developing giraffe and snakes from various habitats. Finally, possible countermeasures to speed readaptation of astronauts to gravity after prolonged space flight will be discussed.
Document ID
20020034615
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Hargens, Alan R.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA United States)
Date Acquired
August 20, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1995
Subject Category
Aerospace Medicine
Meeting Information
Meeting: IV World Congress of International Society for Adapt. Medicine
Location: Chandigarth
Country: India
Start Date: December 9, 1995
End Date: December 12, 1995
Sponsors: International Society for Adapt. Medicine
Funding Number(s)
PROJECT: RTOP 199-26-12-34
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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