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A new study suggests potential health challenges for astronauts on future Mars missions, as researchers found that prolonged exposure to microgravity can cause brain expansion. This finding could hinder long-term space travel, impacting plans by organizations like NASA and SpaceX. Elon Musk has long advocated for humans to become a multi-planetary species, envisioning Mars colonization as a critical step. However, these findings raise concerns about astronaut health during such missions.
The University of Texas study observed that, in microgravity, blood pools in the optic nerve, leading to excess fluid in the brain. On Earth, gravity assists blood flow, but without it, astronauts experience changes that can lead to brain swelling. This condition resembles normal pressure hydrocephalus, where brain ventricles enlarge, causing issues like difficulty walking and bladder control. Although astronauts haven’t reported these specific symptoms, researchers believe brain swelling could affect their ability to perform tasks in space.
MRI brain scans of astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) revealed these changes, suggesting similarities to conditions seen in people confined to prolonged bed rest on Earth. Though the long-term effects remain unclear, the study highlights the need for solutions to mitigate health risks for Mars missions.
Musk previously suggested that humans should leverage their consciousness to advance as a multi-planetary species, asserting that such expansion is essential. He has also proposed a government based on direct democracy for Mars, where colonists would directly influence policies. However, this study’s findings underscore the complexities of such aspirations, as Mars colonization must address not only technological but also biological challenges to ensure the health and functionality of future Martian settlers.
The study is published in the journal Radiological Society of North America.
