Cyborg Vision: Polaris Dawn Mission Crew To Conduct Groundbreaking Eye Experiment

How does space affect the human body? The upcoming Polaris Dawn mission aims to answer this question by taking a significant step forward, with a remarkable array of scientific experiments. At the forefront of this research is a groundbreaking study using smart contact lenses to monitor astronauts’ eye health.

A New Space Vision: Smart Contact Lenses

In a pioneering experiment led by the University of Colorado Boulder, Polaris Dawn crew members will wear smart contact lenses to monitor their intraocular pressure. This innovative approach aims to shed light on Spaceflight Associated Neuroocular Syndrome (SANS), a condition that affects astronauts’ vision during extended periods in microgravity.

The smart contact lenses, equipped with micro-sensors, will continuously measure changes in eye pressure and shape. This data will help scientists better understand how the eye adapts to the space environment and potentially develop countermeasures for SANS.

Anna Menon, one of the mission’s astronauts and lead space operations engineer at SpaceX, demonstrated the lenses in a video, showing a halo-like ring of light outlining the inside of her pupils. “Eye will be back… for research,” Menon tweeted, highlighting the importance of this experiment.

Jared Isaacman, mission commander, commented: “The mission profile of Polaris Dawn affords us some great opportunities to expand our collective knowledge about the human body in space and associated applicability here on earth. Our science and research agenda will enhance the body of knowledge for future long-duration spaceflight which will take us back to the Moon and on to Mars; as well as progress our knowledge and understanding for humankind here on Earth. The Polaris Dawn team along with the exceptional science and research team at SpaceX cast a wide net to find the best experiments to fly with us.”

A Diverse Portfolio of Space Science

The smart contact lens experiment is just one of 36 cutting-edge research projects from 31 partner institutions worldwide. This diverse scientific payload represents one of the most comprehensive research efforts ever undertaken on a single spaceflight mission. The experiments cover a wide range of topics:

1. Human physiology in microgravity
2. Radiation effects on the human body
3. Plant growth in space
4. Advanced materials testing
5. Earth observation studies

Hemoglobin Research: Understanding Space-Induced Anemia

Building on previous research from the Space Omics and Medical Atlas (SOMA) project, the Polaris Dawn mission will also focus on hemoglobin gene regulation in astronauts. Recent studies have revealed significant down-regulation of globin genes during spaceflight, with recovery observed post-flight. This research provides critical insights into space-induced anemia. The findings from these studies are crucial for future SpaceX missions, including Polaris Dawn. Understanding the mechanisms behind space-induced anemia will help in developing countermeasures to mitigate the risks associated with prolonged space travel.

Also, the Polaris Dawn team is now collaborating with Ottawa Hospital and other institutions to conduct hemoglobin profiling for the crew. This comprehensive approach to studying both eye health and blood composition in space will provide a more holistic understanding of the human body’s response to microgravity.

With contributions from various institutions and experts, the findings from Polaris Dawn will not only enhance our knowledge but also provide practical solutions for future missions. As we prepare for longer journeys into space, the insights gained from this mission could be game-changers for the health and safety of astronauts.