OBJECTIVES:
Seventy-six percent of long-duration astronaut crewmembers have experienced inflight and/or postflight vision changes. These changes define what has become known as space flight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome (SANS). Although the exact cause of SANS is unknown at this time, it is suspected that the microgravity-induced shift in fluids from the lower body to the upper body (cephalad fluid shift) plays a significant role. This fluid shift, in turn, may cause an elevation in intracranial pressure (ICP) and intraocular pressure (IOP).

Another factor that has been proposed to contribute to SANS is exercise. Although moderate and high intensity aerobic or resistance exercise have clearly identified benefits for cardiac, muscle, and bone health, it is unknown whether such exercise contributes to the development of SANS. The objective of this study was to characterize the impact of three exercise modalities used by astronauts on cerebral blood flow (CBF), ICP, and IOP.

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Crew health and performance is critical to successful human exploration beyond low Earth orbit. The Human Research Program (HRP) investigates and mitigates the highest risks to human health and performance, providing essential countermeasures and technologies for human space exploration. Risks include physiological and performance effects from hazards such as radiation, altered gravity, and hostile environments, as well as unique challenges in medical support, human factors, and behavioral health support. The HRP utilizes an Integrated Research Plan (IRP) to identify the approach and research activities planned to address these risks, which are assigned to specific Elements within the program. The Human Research Roadmap is the web-based tool for communicating the IRP content.

The Human Research Roadmap is located at: https://humanresearchroadmap.nasa.gov/