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Smith L. Space station and spacecraft environmental conditions and human mental health: Specific recommendations and guidelines. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2024; 40:126-134. [PMID: 38245337 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2023.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
The way that a given environment may influence human mental health is widely established, with decades of research linking anxiety, depression, stress, productivity, and general mood with all facets of a given environment, including noise levels, lighting, air quality, and other factors. The environmental conditions of a space habitat have far reaching consequences for human mental health and should be carefully managed. This manuscript serves to briefly review what is known about the main components of a space habitat (e.g., noise levels, lighting, air quality, privacy, plant life, etc.), and provide specific and clear recommendations for mission planners and space habitat designers. Where appropriate, opportunities for future research are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Logan Smith
- Oklahoma State University, 116 Psychology Building, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA.
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Dontre AJ. Weighing the impact of microgravity on vestibular and visual functions. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2024; 40:51-61. [PMID: 38245348 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2023.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Numerous technological challenges have been overcome to realize human space exploration. As mission durations gradually lengthen, the next obstacle is a set of physical limitations. Extended exposure to microgravity poses multiple threats to various bodily systems. Two of these systems are of particular concern for the success of future space missions. The vestibular system includes the otolith organs, which are stimulated in gravity but unloaded in microgravity. This impairs perception, posture, and coordination, all of which are relevant to mission success. Similarly, vision is impaired in many space travelers due to possible intracranial pressure changes or fluid shifts in the brain. As humankind prepares for extended missions to Mars and beyond, it is imperative to compensate for these perils in prolonged weightlessness. Possible countermeasures are considered such as exercise regimens, improved nutrition, and artificial gravity achieved with a centrifuge or spacecraft rotation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Dontre
- School of Psychology, Fielding Graduate University, 2020 De La Vina Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA; Department of Communications, Behavioral, and Natural Sciences, Franklin University, 201 South Grant Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215, USA.
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Dakkumadugula A, Pankaj L, Alqahtani AS, Ullah R, Ercisli S, Murugan R. Space nutrition and the biochemical changes caused in Astronauts Health due to space flight: A review. Food Chem X 2023; 20:100875. [PMID: 38144801 PMCID: PMC10740090 DOI: 10.1016/j.fochx.2023.100875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Astronauts required food that is healthy, nutritious, and tasted good, while also meeting their dietary needs. To ensure the astronauts' nutritional needs are met, a Nutritional Status Assessment Supplemental Medical Objective (Nutrition SMO) is conducted. This involves collecting blood and urine samples from the astronauts, which are then tested and analysed. The assessment looks for indications of bone health, muscle loss, hormonal imbalances, gastrointestinal functions, cardiovascular health, iron metabolism, ophthalmic changes, and immune changes that occur during space flight under conditions of microgravity or weightlessness. It was discovered that iron levels in astronauts tend to increase due to the decrease in body volume during space flight. It requires skilful optimization considering nutrient delivery, shelf life, and packaging of space food, while minimizing resource usage and ensuring reliability, safety, and addressing the physiological and psychological effects on the crew members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel Dakkumadugula
- Food Science and Technology, Department of Food Technology, Faculty of Life and Allied Health Sciences, Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bangalore 560054, Karnataka, India
| | - Lakshaa Pankaj
- Food Science and Technology, Department of Food Technology, Faculty of Life and Allied Health Sciences, Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bangalore 560054, Karnataka, India
| | - Ali S. Alqahtani
- Medicinal Aromatic and Poisonous Plants Research Center, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Riaz Ullah
- Medicinal Aromatic and Poisonous Plants Research Center, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sezai Ercisli
- Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Ataturk University, 25240 Erzurum, Turkey
- HGF Agro, Ata Teknokent, TR-25240, Erzurum, Turkiye
| | - Rajadurai Murugan
- Department of Food Technology, Faculty of Life and Allied Health Sciences, Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bangalore 560054, Karnataka, India
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Pittia P, Blanc S, Heer M. Unraveling the intricate connection between dietary factors and the success in long-term space missions. NPJ Microgravity 2023; 9:89. [PMID: 38092789 PMCID: PMC10719368 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-023-00331-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades of spaceflight, inadequate caloric intake has posed significant nutritional challenges, contributing to muscle degradation, weakened immune and cardiovascular systems during and after space missions. This challenge becomes more acute on longer exploration missions, where transporting all food for the entire mission becomes a logistical challenge. This places immense pressure on the food system, requiring energy-dense, varied, stable, and palatable food options. Prolonged storage can lead to nutrient degradation, reducing their bioavailability and bioaccessibility to astronauts. Research is essential not only to improve the quality and stability of space food but also to enhance nutrient bioavailability, thereby reducing weight and volume of food. Muscle and bone loss represent major risks during extended spaceflight, prompting extensive efforts to find exercise countermeasures. However, increased exercise requires additional energy intake, and finding the optimal balance between energy needs and the preservation of muscle and bone mass is challenging. Currently, there is no reliable way to measure total energy expenditure and activity-related energy expenditures in real-time. Systematic research is necessary to develop onboard technology for accurate energy expenditure and body composition monitoring. This research should aim to establish an optimal exercise regimen that balances energy requirements while maintaining astronaut strength and minimizing food transport. In summary, this overview outlines key actions needed for future exploration missions to maintain body mass and physical strength of space travellers. It addresses the requirements for food processing and preservation, considerations for space food formulation and production, and the essential measures to be implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Martina Heer
- IU International University of Applied Sciences, Erfurt, Germany.
- University of Bonn, Institute of Nutritional and Food Sciences, Bonn, Germany.
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Izzo LG, El Nakhel C, Rouphael Y, Proietti S, Paglialunga G, Moscatello S, Battistelli A, Iovane M, Romano LE, De Pascale S, Aronne G. Applying productivity and phytonutrient profile criteria in modelling species selection of microgreens as Space crops for astronaut consumption. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1210566. [PMID: 37636122 PMCID: PMC10450622 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1210566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Long-duration missions in outer Space will require technologies to regenerate environmental resources such as air and water and to produce food while recycling consumables and waste. Plants are considered the most promising biological regenerators to accomplish these functions, due to their complementary relationship with humans. Plant cultivation for Space starts with small plant growth units to produce fresh food to supplement stowed food for astronauts' onboard spacecrafts and orbital platforms. The choice of crops must be based on limiting factors such as time, energy, and volume. Consequently, small, fast-growing crops are needed to grow in microgravity and to provide astronauts with fresh food rich in functional compounds. Microgreens are functional food crops recently valued for their color and flavor enhancing properties, their rich phytonutrient content and short production cycle. Candidate species of microgreens to be harvested and eaten fresh by crew members, belong to the families Brassicaceae, Asteraceae, Chenopodiaceae, Lamiaceae, Apiaceae, Amarillydaceae, Amaranthaceae, and Cucurbitaceae. Methods In this study we developed and applied an algorithm to objectively compare numerous genotypes of microgreens intending to select those with the best productivity and phytonutrient profile for cultivation in Space. The selection process consisted of two subsequent phases. The first selection was based on literature data including 39 genotypes and 25 parameters related to growth, phytonutrients (e.g., tocopherol, phylloquinone, ascorbic acid, polyphenols, lutein, carotenoids, violaxanthin), and mineral elements. Parameters were implemented in a mathematical model with prioritization criteria to generate a ranking list of microgreens. The second phase was based on germination and cultivation tests specifically designed for this study and performed on the six top species resulting from the first ranking list. For the second selection, experimental data on phytonutrients were expressed as metabolite production per day per square meter. Results and discussion In the final ranking list radish and savoy cabbage resulted with the highest scores based on their productivity and phytonutrient profile. Overall, the algorithm with prioritization criteria allowed us to objectively compare candidate species and obtain a ranking list based on the combination of numerous parameters measured in the different species. This method can be also adapted to new species, parameters, or re-prioritizing the parameters for specific selection purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Gennaro Izzo
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Christophe El Nakhel
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Youssef Rouphael
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Simona Proietti
- National Research Council of Italy, Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems, Porano, Italy
| | - Gabriele Paglialunga
- National Research Council of Italy, Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems, Porano, Italy
| | - Stefano Moscatello
- National Research Council of Italy, Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems, Porano, Italy
| | - Alberto Battistelli
- National Research Council of Italy, Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems, Porano, Italy
| | - Maurizio Iovane
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Leone Ermes Romano
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Stefania De Pascale
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Giovanna Aronne
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
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Pandith JA, Neekhra S, Ahmad S, Sheikh RA. Recent developments in space food for exploration missions: A review. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2023; 36:123-134. [PMID: 36682821 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2022.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Food and nutrition have greatly influenced the effectiveness of space exploration missions. With the development of technology, attention is now being paid more and more to preparing food for the microgravity environment, taking into account factors like nutrient density, shelf life, optimized packaging, preservations, innovations, challenges, and applications. The spectrum of food products is designed to meet the balanced nutritional requirements, reduce hazards encountered by astronauts, and utilize space in explorers during space missions. For the long duration of space missions and, consequently, for human permanence in space, it is crucial to provide humans with an adequate supply of fresh food to meet their nutritional needs. By doing this, astronauts could reduce the health risks associated with psychological stress, microgravity, and radiation exposure from space. Maintaining astronauts' health, happiness, and vitality during long-duration human-crewed missions has recently emerged as an essential and critical research area. The food they eat appears to be an important factor. For short-term space missions, astronauts' food could be brought from earth. Still, for long-term space missions to the Moon, Mars, and other distant missions, which are the current research destinations, they must find a way to eat, such as by cultivating plants or finding other means of survival. Scientists and researchers are attempting to develop novel food production technologies or systems that require minimal inputs while maximizing safe, nutritionally balanced, and delicious food outputs for long-duration space missions that could benefit people on earth. This review summarizes various aspects of space food, including evolution, innovations, technological advancements to prolong shelf life, and astronauts' problems. It also involves current research, including space foods like 3D printing and space farming for a long-term space mission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junaid Ahmad Pandith
- Department of Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, 202002, India.
| | - Somya Neekhra
- Department of Food Engineering and Technology, Institute of Engineering and Technology, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi, 284128, India
| | - Saghir Ahmad
- Department of Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, 202002, India
| | - Rayees Ahmad Sheikh
- Department of Chemistry, Government Degree College Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, 192301, India
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