Space exploration is a fascinating and challenging field. As we continue to push the boundaries of human space travel, the importance of astronaut health and performance becomes crucial, especially for extended missions. 

Labfront recently showcased our platform at the Spaceflight Human Optimization and Performance (SHOP) Summit held at NASA’s Space Center Houston. This event gathered experts to discuss astronaut readiness for long-duration spaceflight.

Our time at the SHOP Summit gave us valuable insights into the health challenges of space travel. We also learned about the key role wearable data could play in developing effective health strategies for astronauts.

Health impacts of space travel

In the demanding environment of space, unique stresses are placed on the body. Microgravity can cause muscle atrophy and bone density loss, while the lack of a natural 24-hour light-dark cycle can disrupt circadian rhythms and sleep patterns. 

Beyond the physical toll on the body, the isolation and cramped living quarters can significantly affect mental health and cognitive function.

‍

The valuable role of wearables for astronaut health

Devices from companies like Garmin and Dexcom are vital for monitoring astronaut health. Garmin watches, for example, track heart rate, pulse oximetry, and sleep patterns, providing 24/7 insights into the impact of space conditions. In fact, during the upcoming Polaris Dawn mission, Garmin fēnix 7 smartwatches will monitor these biometrics without needing a charge for the entirety of the 5-day flight. 

Dexcom’s CGM systems, meanwhile, track glucose levels, helping monitor the metabolic changes that occur in space. Maintaining glucose levels ensures astronauts remain energized and mentally alert.

All of this rich biometric data provided by wearables will allow us to better understand how the body adjusts to being in space.

Labfront’s contribution to space health research

During the SHOP Summit, Labfront’s Jordan Masys and Dr. Andrew Ahn showcased how our platform integrates with devices from Garmin and Dexcom to streamline the collection and analysis of physiological data. This not only enhances research productivity but enables more focused insights. 

Our analytics team, alumni from the Center for Dynamical Biomarkers (Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School), have over 20+ years of experience in digital biomarkers. This expertise will prove instrumental in deciphering the extensive data collected during space missions, helping researchers craft effective health strategies for astronauts.

‍

Looking ahead

The collaboration between wearable tech, data analysis platforms like Labfront, and space agencies opens up new possibilities for human space exploration. The physiological data collected can aid both current and future human health and performance in space research. We’re excited about our role in advancing our understanding of how the human body adapts to space.