Utility of Health Wearables for Astronaut Medical Support: Implications for Future Deep Space Missions
- Paper number
IAC-19,A2,7,16,x50960
- Author
Mr. Scott Ritter, France, International Space University
- Coauthor
Prof. Volker Damann, France, International Space University
- Year
2019
- Abstract
Astronauts face numerous physiological changes in the space environment that pose risks to their health. These risks have consequences for future long duration missions beyond Low Earth Orbit, particularly for lunar, deep space, and planetary visit missions. To mitigate these risks, space agencies are seeking ways to improve (1) space-based medical data collection systems, and (2) monitoring of astronaut physiological parameters in a minimally invasive manner. In particular, wearable biosensors (health wearables) may provide solutions that address these problems. To date, several health wearables have been tested and flown on the International Space Station by national space agencies. It is anticipated that the results of these tests will demonstrate that health wearables, with passive, real-time data collection, and automatic data transmission to the ground, will save valuable astronaut time and provide better solutions to monitor astronaut health. However, there may be some challenges with operationalizing the use of health wearables for astronauts. These include (1) assessing the data management trade-offs associated with operationalizing their use, (2) problems associated with data quality and security, and (3) operationalizing their adoption within national space agencies. To address these challenges, this project investigates the potential utility of health wearables for astronaut medical support, taking into account device capabilities, functionality, clinical and research needs of astronauts, data management, and operational requirements. A design concept for a wearable, non-invasive, non-obstructive health monitoring system are described, which includes clinical and research data acquisition, a data repository, a health support system, medical checklists, an off-nominal warning system, and integration into space clothing and fabrics. Altogether, this project serves to inform decision makers within the space community about the potential for health wearables to address gaps in space agency roadmaps for human space exploration.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-19,A2,7,16,x50960.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.