'Space Lettuce' Could Save Bone Density Of Astronauts On 3-Year-Long Mars Mission
Astronauts lose about 1% of their bone mass for each month spent in space, getting in the way of long-term space missions. Now, scientists have invented a type of lettuce that helps astronauts avoid bone loss during long missions in space.
In the 2030s, NASA wants to send astronauts to Mars on a multi-year mission which would have long-term effects on the health of astronauts.
Saving the bones of astronauts
This new transgenic lettuce produces a bone-stimulating hormone that could protect astronauts' bones and keep them intact. Breaking bones on Earth is painful enough, to do the same on Mars would definitely be more frustrating.
Also read:?Future Astronauts Could Wear Personalised 'Skin' With 3D-Printed Spacesuits
The same plant could also be used on Earth in territories where people have a high rate of bone issues like osteoporosis. The findings from the study were presented at a meeting of the American Chemical Society on Tuesday.
"Right now, astronauts on the International Space Station have certain exercise regimens to try to maintain bone mass," Dr. Kevin Yates, a graduate student who presented the study said.
How viable is the option?
Astronauts aboard the ISS spend a maximum of six months in space. But a mission to Mars isn't the same. For starters, current tech get humans there in 10 months, after which they're expected to spend at least a year on Mars studying the planet, and then spending another 10 months to return to Earth.
"The 3-year mission could leave astronauts vulnerable to osteopenia, and later, osteoporosis," researchers warned.
As opposed to medications that would be troublesome to store and transport in space, scientists suggest carrying a tiny transgenic. Thousands of these could fit into a small vial and then grown like regular lettuce.
Also read:?Watch How Astronauts Get Haircuts In Space Without Making A Mess
Even then, astronauts would be required to eat about eight cups (380 grams) of this lettuce to receive a sufficient dose of the hormone. Now, scientists want to extend the hormone quantity in the lettuce.
What do you think about this mechanism to save astronauts' bones in space? Let us know in the comments below.?For more in the world of?technology?and?science, keep reading?Indiatimes.com.
References
Martin, A. (2022, March 22). Space-grown lettuce could help astronauts avoid bone loss on three-year mission to Mars. Sky News.?
