Astronauts’ Vision Problems Linked to Prolonged Space Exposure, Posing Risks for Mars Missions

Astronauts’ Vision Problems Linked to Prolonged Space Exposure, Posing Risks for Mars Missions



Astronauts returning from extended space missions are reported to experience significant changes in eye health, which is associated with prolonged contact of microgravity. Researchers have identified that blood flow and pressure conditions converted into space can cause vision problems. These changes are mainly associated with a condition to the Spaceflight Neuro-Ocular syndrome (SANS), which affects about 70 percent of astronauts during a stay of six to twelve months at the International Space Station (ISS). It raises potential challenges for long missions, such as a journey to Mars.

Study identifies major ocular changes

according to a Study Published in the IEEE Open Journal of Engineering in Medicine and Biology, three important ocular parameters were analyzed: ocular rigidity, introcular pressure and ocular pulse dimensions. Measurements were made on the figures of 13 astronauts, whose missions spread from 157 to 186 days. Researchers saw a reduction of 33 percent in occupation rigor, 11 percent decrease in intraocular pressure and 25 percent decline in occupy pulse dimensions. These findings indicate biomechanical changes in the eye, with symptoms such as low eye size, optic nerve inflammation and retinal folds.

Potential long -term impact

Dr. Santiago Costantino, an ophthalmologist at Universit de Montreal, Thrown light on For phys.org that microgravity changes blood flow and venous circulation in the eye, possibly leading to structural changes in Scalara and Coroid. Viewed changes may remain, raising concerns about the effects on missions over a year. While most astronauts returned to normal vision after their mission, corrective lenses were sometimes necessary during recovery.

Mars missions create new risks

Experts are cautious about unknown implications of prolonged risk for microgravity during extended missions such as Mars. The research team insisted that additional study and preventive strategy is necessary to remove these risks. Conclusions serve as an initial indicator to identify astronauts at risk, pave the way for more targeted solutions to ensure the safety of the next frontier of space exploration.