S01 → Blue Dot/White Tangerine
From the Microscope to the Telescope
→ Areas of Research
- Astrobiology (A) projects seek to answer the fundamental question of whether Life exists beyond Earth. Research opportunities in this field examine extreme environments on Earth to identify potential habitats for extraterrestrial life and develop instruments for detecting biomarkers on other celestial bodies.
- Bioastronautics (B) projects include a wide range of studies related to the biological aspects of human spaceflight. It comprises research into life support systems, nutrition, and the development of technologies for growing food and recycling resources in space environments, ensuring the sustainability of future missions.
- Human Factors (HF) (or Ergonomics) projects investigate how humans interact with the complex technologies and environments of space exploration. This encompasses the design of spacecraft, spacesuits, and equipment to optimise usability and safety. Additionally, it explores the psychological aspects of isolation, confinement, and stress management.
- Space Medicine (SM) (or Space Physiology) projects focus on understanding the physiological and psychological challenges faced by astronauts and cosmonauts in the extreme conditions of space. This research delves into issues such as the impact of microgravity and radiation exposure on the human body, and the development of countermeasures to mitigate health risks during long-duration space missions.
→ Research Projects
Discover our different initiatives by categories:
Research & Development
HIGHLIGHTS
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Neurodegeneration & Neuroinflammation in Deep Space
Neurons and Glial Cells under RIDGE
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This systematic review aimed at unravelling the intricate processes of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration affecting both neurons and glial cells after exposure to the unique challenges of space, such as cosmic radiation and microgravity. Understanding the mechanisms behind neurodegeneration in the space environment is critical not only for the well-being of space travellers but also for advancing our knowledge of neurobiology and the development of protective strategies for neurodegenerative diseases on Earth, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
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H.A.P.M.O.S. Stories of Human Adaptation
Psychological and Physiological Alterations in ICE Environments
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In an era where space exploration is advancing at an unprecedented pace, space analogue missions play a pivotal role in preparing space travellers for the rigours of outer space. Analogue missions simulate space conditions on Earth in Isolated, Confined, and Extreme (ICE) environments, allowing astronauts/cosmonauts to train, test equipment, and conduct scientific experiments in situations as similar as possible to those encountered in space. The H.A.P.M.O.S. initiative aims to understand the psychological and physiological factors influencing health and well-being through longitudinal qualitative studies (e.g., diary studies and interviews) and precise physiological measurements (e.g., stress levels and sleep patterns). A second step of the project will lead to the creation of an open database of standards and protocols used in space analogue missions to improve training processes and offer standardised protocols to conduct medical experiments.
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NeurAstra Educational Programme
First Edition — Feynman Promotion (2024/2025)
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The NeurAstra Educational Programme (NAEP) is an initiative designed to engage students, early-career researchers, and professionals transitioning into science-related fields, all sharing a passion for science, nature, and space. This programme offers a unique opportunity to collaborate on NeurAstra’s initiatives while developing the methodologies and skills needed to launch innovative and impactful research projects.
COMING SOON
EXPERIMENT
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B.E.R.R.I.E.S. Experiment
Blueberry Extract Research for Radiation-Induced Effects Shielding.
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PROGRAMME/PLATFORM
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Voices of Spacefarers (VoS Programme)
Designing Space for Humans, With Humans.
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SYSTEM/PLATFORM
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H.I.P.P.O.
Tools for Data Classification & Retrieval.
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