Strategies, Research Priorities, and Challenges for the Exploration of Space Beyond Low Earth Orbit
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: NASA's recent emphasis on human exploration of the Moon and, ultimately, Mars necessitates a transition from a focus of its research in the biological sciences from Low Earth Orbit (LEO) to platforms beyond LEO. Fundamental research questions need to be addressed to enable humans to thrive in deep space. Work beyond LEO necessitates a shift in technology and the utilization of organisms in autonomous experiments, especially in the near term. The Beyond LEO Instrumentation & Science Series Science Working Group (BLISS-SWG) was established to provide NASA's Space Biology Program input on its strategy for developing research priorities and tools for exploration beyond LEO. Here, we present an abridged version of the first annual report of the BLISS-SWG, which is publicly available on the NASA Technical Reports Server. Seven priority areas and pertinent research questions were identified for research beyond LEO in the coming 2–5 years. Appropriate experimental organisms and technology development needs for research addressing these questions are summarized. The BLISS-SWG aims for this review to serve as a resource for the space biology and science and engineering communities as they develop research to understand risks and mitigation strategies for deep-space stressors on human crew, plants, and their microbiomes.
Source: Gravitational and Space Research
Institutions: Ames Research Center, University of Florida, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, North Carolina State University, Stanford SystemX Alliance, Stanford University, Ohio University, Kennedy Space Center, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport
Language: English
Subfield: Physiology (medical)
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4392406294