Work

Submarine medicine as an analog for spaceflight: a review of acute medical care

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Long-duration spaceflight presents similar medical challenges to submarine deployment, including limited surgical capabilities and the psychological strain from isolation. This review synthesizes submarine medical literature to highlight parallels and divergences with space medicine, focusing on acute conditions. By comparing incidence data on acute medical diagnoses and examining case studies of these conditions, we propose countermeasures such as expanded surgical training and increased mental engagement. These analogies provide a blueprint for autonomous medical care on missions to the Moon and Mars.

Source: npj Microgravity

DOI: 10.1038/s41526-026-00566-4

Authors: Adam P. Prucka, Mark Shelhamer, Radames J. B. Cordero

Institutions: Johns Hopkins University, Columbia University, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Language: English

Topic: Spaceflight effects on biology

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,690