Space Medicine

Interdisciplinary research into the effects of prolonged periods of seclusion and conditions of psychosocial isolation, similar to those encountered during crewed space missions.

Although the laboratory does not directly conduct research into human physiology in microgravity conditions, it has advanced facilities enabling comprehensive monitoring of the health and physical condition of experiment participants. The equipment includes, amongst other things, systems for recording vital signs (blood pressure, respiratory rate and heart rate), measuring body temperature, as well as modern devices for analysing EEG brain waves and assessing cognitive function and mental performance. The study analyses the psychophysical and psychological effects of such experiences, including, amongst other things, chronic stress, circadian rhythm disturbances, changes in cognitive functioning, and the impact of isolation on decision-making processes and teamwork.

Space medicine also conducts research in the fields of neuropsychology and ergonomics, testing methods to support the mental wellbeing of participants on long-duration missions – including biofeedback, relaxation techniques and interfaces that aid in monitoring wellbeing. This makes it possible to develop effective strategies to counteract the negative effects of isolation and to create adaptive models that can be applied not only in space exploration but also in terrestrial conditions – for example, in extreme environments, research stations, military units or crisis situations.

Laboratory equipment

• The BST HR2000 vital signs monitoring system, which enables the long-term recording of parameters such as blood pressure, heart rate and ECG without restricting the patient’s mobility.
• The ELMIKO EEG EXG 32 device for long-term monitoring and analysis of brain waves during studies relating to sensory deprivation and stress.
• The Biopac MP-160 cognitive function monitoring system, which enables the recording of data on eye movements, micro-expressions of the facial muscles and other parameters related to cognitive activity.

Space medicine is a rapidly developing field that studies the effects of space conditions on the human body and develops solutions to support the health of astronauts. Our space medicine laboratory offers state-of-the-art research facilities for conducting experiments, tests and simulations in the fields of physiology, psychology and telemedicine under analogue conditions. We invite research teams and companies interested in innovative solutions for safeguarding human health in space and extreme environments to collaborate with us.