The two main objectives of this study are:

• to increase the knowledge of skin physiology and the skin “aging” process in microgravity, and
• to use those parameters in a skin mathematical model.

It is well-known that weightlessness compromises the whole biological network of the osseous and muscular supporting system or the cardiovascular and vestibular system. Along with side effects in these systems, skin impairments belong to the most frequent medical events during Space Missions. This suggests that also cells of the skin employ molecules and pathways dependent on gravity. For example, it has been shown that cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in melanocytes, the pigment cells of the epidermis, is sensitive to gravitational forces. Among other functions cyclic GMP does not only regulate the programmed cell death (apoptosis) but also leads to activation of protein kinases which in turn trigger specific pathways in the cell. This implies global changes of the cells.

General advantages of the skin for investigations:

• skin is easily accessible and can be continuously examined by means of a large number of non-invasive test methods
• the large surface area allows comparative examinations due to its constitution made out of two blastodermic layers, the ectoderm and the mesoderm, the skin integrates a multitude of tasks and functions (i.e. immunological organ) and acts as a “mirror” of the physical and mental health status
• in relation to the last-mentioned point skin may be utilized as an early recognition system for pathologic changes of the body.

A pilot study investigated possible changes in skin parameters during space flight, such as hydration, barrier function and skin topography and additional dermal parameters such as elasticity and the skin density were recorded pre- and postflight. To confirm the preliminary observations and study their variation, it is planned to repeat this study with additional crewmembers. It is planned to use similar technologies as during the initial experiment and to add some additional tests during pre and post flight examinations.

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