NASA is leveraging advanced technologies, including 'AVATAR' organ chips and 'ARCHER' smartwatches, to comprehensively study the impact of spaceflight on astronauts during the Artemis missions. The research aims to understand the effects of radiation and microgravity on both physical and mental health, with potential applications extending beyond space exploration.

Radiation Monitoring and 'AVATAR' Organ Chips

Once astronauts leave the protective layer of Earth’s magnetosphere, the risk of radiation exposure increases, particularly during trips to the moon. To measure this, the Orion spacecraft is equipped with six new radiation sensors, according to the broadcast. In addition to these sensors, NASA is utilizing AVATAR – which stands for virtual astronaut tissue analog response – to examine the effects of radiation and microgravity on human tissues.

Raj Bhardwaj, an emergency doctor, explained that AVATAR involves drawing blood from Artemis astronauts. Some of the blood is kept in organ chips on Earth, while other samples are taken to space within the organ chips. These chips essentially contain a version of the astronauts’ bone marrow, allowing researchers to study the effects of the space environment. The potential applications of this research extend beyond astronaut health, with the possibility of developing therapies for individuals undergoing radiation therapy on Earth.

Immune System Response and Viral Reactivation

A significant part of the Artemis health research is focused on understanding how spaceflight affects the immune system. Research conducted on the International Space Station has shown reactivation of certain viruses that are typically dormant on Earth. Researchers refer to this dormant state as “quiescence.” Specifically, the broadcast noted that viruses like shingles can reawaken during spaceflight.

To track these changes, Artemis astronauts will provide dry saliva samples by blotting them onto special booklets. This data will help scientists monitor immune system function and identify potential health risks associated with space travel.

Mental Health and the 'ARCHER' Smartwatch

The psychological challenges of spaceflight are also being addressed through the use of technology. The broadcast highlighted the difficulty of imagining spending 10 days in a spacecraft the size of a minivan. To monitor astronauts’ mental state, NASA is employing ARCHER – another acronym – which is described as a space-age smartwatch designed to gather behavioral data.

Even after decades of space travel, there is still much to learn about how brains and bodies respond to the space environment, including the effects of fluid shifting and potential cognitive burdens. ARCHER is intended to provide valuable insights into these responses, even in relation to basic sensory input like vision.