Medical support during missions
Medical care in space is a mix of preflight health optimization, onboard medical kits and procedures, telemedicine with ground teams, and contingency plans for evacuation when necessary.
Components of medical care:
- Comprehensive preflight screening and training for common medical issues.
- Onboard medical equipment, medications, and supplies sized for the crew and mission duration.
- Real-time consultation with flight surgeons and specialists via communications links.
- Protocols for emergency procedures, including return-to-Earth options.
Managing health risks
- Regular health monitoring tracks vital signs, bone density, and radiation exposure.
- Behavioral health support helps with stress, sleep, and team dynamics.
- Long-duration missions demand advanced diagnostics and potentially autonomous medical capabilities.
NASA continually improves medical capabilities through research, tests on the ISS, and development of compact diagnostic and treatment tools for future deep-space missions.