A study conducted by the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) has shown that microgravity can cause the temperature to increase steadily, mainly due to changes in the fluid that disrupt thermal equilibrium. Using a 3D computational model, this finding suggests that long-duration space missions could significantly affect astronauts’ health.
Fluid changes
In microgravity, blood and other bodily fluids move from the lower extremities to the upper body and head, causing the core and head to heat up while the extremities cool down.
IIST Model:
IIST has developed a 3D computational model that simulates how the human body regulates temperature in microgravity, taking into account factors such as sweating, shivering and organ heat.
Increased temperature: This model predicts that core body temperature will increase by 8 degrees Celsius over 2.5 months in microgravity, with temperatures rising even further during exercise.
Model validation: The accuracy of the model was verified by comparing its predictions with data from astronauts on the Mir and ISS space stations, which showed good agreement.
Results: Understanding how microgravity affects body temperature is important for planning long-duration space missions and ensuring the health and well-being of astronauts.
Real-world applications: Similar thermoregulation models are used in medicine (surgical planning), architecture (thermal comfort), and clothing design.
Does microgravity increase core body temperature?
Results indicate that microgravity exposure consistently increases core body temperature (CBT) across all conditions, with fluid shifts being the most significant factor influencing thermal balance.
Does hot weather raise core temperature?
Individuals routinely have sweating rates of 1 liter per hour when working in hot environments. Dehydration from sweat loss increases plasma tonicity and decreases blood volume, both of which reduce heat loss and result in elevated core temperature levels during exercise-heat stress.
Which location has the highest recorded temperature?
According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the highest temperature ever recorded was 56.7 °C (134.1 °F) on 10 July 1913 in Furnace Creek (Greenland Ranch),
California, United States, but the validity of this record is challenged as possible problems with the reading have since been discovered.
FAQs
Q: What do people eat in space?
A: Thermostabilized, fresh, irradiated, dehydrated, and rehydratable food options.
Q: What food is not allowed in space?
A: Bread crumbs (they can float and interfere with instruments).
Q: What is an astronaut’s salary?
A: Between $104,898 and $161,141.
