Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 22, 2025
09:11
Assessment of Global Ocular Structure Following Spaceflight Using a Micro-Computed Tomography Micro-CT Imaging Method
Published on: October 27, 2020
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Eye-brain axis in microgravity and its implications for Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome.
Claudia Stern1,2, Yeni H Yücel3,4,5,6,7, Peter Zu Eulenburg8
1Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany. Claudia.Stern@dlr.de.
NPJ Microgravity
|July 20, 2023
Summary
Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS) causes eye and brain changes in astronauts. Research is ongoing to understand SANS causes and develop effective countermeasures for space exploration.
Area of Science:
- Space medicine
- Neuroscience
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Long-duration spaceflight induces physiological changes in astronauts.
- Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS) affects the eye and brain.
- SANS symptoms include optic disc edema, globe flattening, and vision changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on SANS.
- To summarize potential countermeasures for SANS.
- To identify knowledge gaps in SANS research.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of past and current SANS research.
- Expert group analysis of SANS etiology and countermeasures.
- Synthesis of findings for future research directions.
Main Results:
- SANS involves a complex of neuro-ocular changes.
- Intracranial fluid shifts may contribute to SANS.
- Existing countermeasures show promise but require further validation.
Conclusions:
- Significant knowledge gaps remain regarding SANS biomarkers and treatments.
- Development of reliable ground-based analogs is crucial.
- Further research is needed for SANS prevention and treatment in spaceflight and extraterrestrial exploration.
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