Long -term space trips, such as those envisaged towards Mars, pose many physiological challenges due to the lack of severity. To anticipate and alleviate these effects on the human body, specialized research centers reproduce these conditions on earth. In Toulouse, the spatial simulation of the Medes is part of this scientific quest. A new study recruits volunteers ready to spend 21 days in immersion, thus contributing to the preparation of future missions while receiving compensation of 5,000 euros.
A crucial study for the health of astronauts
The Medes, the Institute of Spatial Medicine and Physiology at the Toulouse University Hospital, is distinguished by its expertise. He conducts biomedical research on the effects of space flights. For years, he has been collaborating with the European Space Agency (ESA) and the National Center for Spatial Studies (CNES). Together, they analyze the impact of the impossor on the human body. The Vivaldi III project deepens this analysis and develops prevention protocols. These measures aim to protect astronauts during prolonged space missions.
Spatial missions, especially those envisaged towards Mars, involve prolonged stays in microgravity. This condition deeply modifies the organism: loss of muscle mass, bone weakening, cardiovascular alterations and metabolic disorders.
By simulating these conditions on Earth, the Medes makes it possible to observe these phenomena closely and to experiment with suitable solutions before their flight application, as underlined 20 minutes. This study, although terrestrial, is an essential link in the chain of preparation for future space missions.
Two comparative soil simulation methods
The organizers will distribute the participants in two groups to experiment two separate techniques of simulation of the impossor. The anti -Orthostatic Aling, a method already proven, places volunteers in a position tilted at -6 °, raised feet, slightly lowered head
This posture modifies the distribution of body fluids, simulating the effects observed in microgravity on blood vessels and muscles. It is widely used in space research, because it reliably imitates the physiological transformations observed into orbit, according to Hitek.
Dry immersion, on the other hand, is a more recent method. Volunteers are placed in a sort of bathtub, wrapped in a waterproof tarpaulin. The body, supported by water without being directly immersed, floats in weightlessness. This technique removes pressure points, limiting sensory stimuli and more faithfully reproducing the state of prolonged weightlessness.
The Medes seeks to compare these two methods to determine which best reflects the real conditions of a spatial flight and how each affects physiological functions such as muscle activity, energy metabolism or bone health.
Conditions of participation in the spatial simulation of the Medes
The Medes recruits men in perfect health, aged 20 to 40, measuring between 1.65 m and 1.80 m, with a BMI between 20 and 26. These strict criteria guarantee coherent results, limiting the external variables . Applicants must also practice regular physical activity, not smoke and be free from allergies or food restrictions, factors that can distort observations.
The process of selecting the spatial simulation of the Medes includes an online registration, followed by two telephone interviews to assess the motivation and check the criteria. A complete medical visit finalizes this step. The study will take place between February and April 2025 at the CHU in Toulouse.
The first five days will be used to establish basic measures (blood tests, ophthalmological tests, psychological examinations), followed by ten days of continuous simulation, then five days of post-experience observation to analyze the recovery of participants. Researchers also plan to follow five days after their release.
Attractive compensation for a 21 -day commitment
Volunteers will receive € 5,000 for their participation, an attractive sum for 21 days of engagement. But beyond the financial aspect, they will directly contribute to crucial research for the future of spatial exploration.
These data will improve physical preparation protocols. They will also help develop effective countermeasures for astronauts. This advance will strengthen their safety and optimize their performance during space missions. The Medes has already opened applications on its official website. This initiative offers a unique opportunity to actively contribute to space research.
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