[Problems of diagnostics and prophylaxis in a Martian flight]

Area of Science:

• Space medicine
• Human physiology in microgravity
• Interplanetary mission health

Context:

• Extended duration interplanetary missions (up to two years) present unique challenges for crew health and performance.
• Unlike orbital flights, future missions will rely on a single crew doctor's expertise for diagnostics and prophylaxis.
• Defining requirements for health monitoring and medical systems is essential for mission success.

Purpose:

• To substantiate a concept and principles for health diagnostics and prophylaxis during interplanetary missions.
• To outline the scope of medical measures for the journey to Mars, surface exploration, and return.
• To evaluate the potential of a short-arm centrifuge for microgravity countermeasure.

Summary:

• The paper proposes a framework for health monitoring and medical interventions tailored to long-duration spaceflight.
• It details strategies for pre-flight, in-transit, surface operations, and return phases.
• The study also explores the feasibility of using a short-arm centrifuge as a countermeasure against microgravity-induced physiological deconditioning.

Impact:

• Provides a foundational concept for developing medical support systems for future Mars missions.
• Highlights the critical role of onboard medical expertise and technology in ensuring astronaut well-being.
• Informs the design of health protocols and equipment for deep space exploration.