Dr. Russell began the presentation talking about the Division and how it is one of the major facilities that NASA has for biological studies. It is focused on space radiation effects, planetary dust toxicology, microgravity effects, life support systems and space suit health.
Space Radiation Effects
The out space is dominated by heavy ions that can damage the human body and the DNA in a significantly way.
There are two major phenomenon which are the low-level, chronic background cosmic radiation which is a long term radiation coming from space that can cause the carcinogenesis and chronic damage to neurons. And the other one is the high-energy, short term process that is represented by solar flares which are originated by the sun and can cause physiological effects.
http://spacebiosciences.arc.nasa.gov/scrRMC.html
Planetary Dust Toxicology
Without water most planetary surfaces are covered by very fine, chemically reactive dust. That’s why they should be considered toxic until proven otherwise.
The type of dust is going to depend on the geochemistry and environmental conditions.
Nowadays, the Division at Ames is working a lot to better understand the effects of lunar dust on the ocular, pulmonary and skin areas.
The results of these studies are expected to have implications for crew health, design of advanced life support systems, and for medical operations requirements of lunar missions.
http://spacebiosciences.arc.nasa.gov/scrLDC.html
Microgravity Effects
One of the major microgravity effects is the significant bone loss in space: -1% per month, about the equivalent of 1 years loss in a post-menopausal woman. However it seems to be that there is a recovery of lost bone on return to earth.
It has been collected significant evidence from hundreds of missions, and there haven’t been fractures and the calcium mobilization has led not statistically significant increase in stones in space.
Understanding the impact of all this situations and phenomenon, innovating new technologies and performing biosciences research, prepare human beings to survive out there, and extend their presence beyond earth. That’s why there is no doubt that Space Biosciences Division supports NASA mission for space exploration.
You can watch the 1st part of the Presentation here:
To enjoy the complete presentation visit: www.youtube.com/anita0228
Receive the lastest announcements, discuss space-related topics with other members.