Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams, who has been stranded in space for over 50 days, could be at risk of potential vision problems.
NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, currently stationed on the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Boeing Crew Flight Test mission, recently underwent detailed eye examinations with her crew. These scans aimed to capture comprehensive
NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, currently stationed on the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Boeing Crew Flight Test mission, recently underwent detailed eye examinations with her crew. These scans aimed to capture comprehensive images of the cornea, lens, and optic nerve to understand how long-duration spaceflight may impact human vision.
Medical professionals on Earth monitored the procedure closely to ensure accurate data collection. This information will aid in ongoing research focused on developing strategies to protect and address vision issues that may arise during extended space missions, such as this one, which has now lasted 52 days.
Dr. Vineet Sehgal, Senior Consultant at Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals, emphasized the importance of these tests. “The microgravity conditions in space can significantly affect the human body, including the eyes. Regular eye checkups help identify and manage any issues promptly, ensuring astronauts remain healthy and capable of performing their mission-critical tasks effectively,” Dr. Sehgal explained.
Eye Health Issues in Space
Astronauts on long-duration space missions often encounter various eye health problems due to prolonged exposure to microgravity. One common condition is Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS), which includes symptoms such as changes in vision, optic disc edema (swelling of the optic nerve), globe flattening (altered eye shape), and choroidal folds (wrinkling of the layer behind the retina).
Dr. Sehgal noted that these issues are believed to result from fluid shifts in a microgravity environment. On Earth, gravity pulls fluids downward, but in space, these fluids move upward towards the head, increasing pressure on the brain and eyes. This heightened intracranial pressure can alter the shape and function of the eyes, contributing to the symptoms associated with SANS.
Understanding and addressing these eye health issues is crucial for the safety and well-being of astronauts. As space missions become longer and more frequent, maintaining good eye health throughout these missions is essential. These checkups and ongoing research are key to developing effective countermeasures and treatments to protect astronauts’ vision and overall health during their time in space.
