Human missions to the Red Planet are a major goal for many space agencies. However, new research suggests that humans won't be reaching Mars anytime soon, as such a journey could pose serious health risks. Specifically, the research showed that long-duration space travel can affect the structure of astronauts' kidneys.
Samples from more than 40 space missions with humans and mice revealed that kidneys are affected by conditions in space, with some parts showing signs of shrinkage in less than a month.
Both NASA and SpaceX have aspired to send humans to Mars in the coming years, but the findings could jeopardize their plans.
See also: Mars: Did life finally begin on the red planet?
Scientists at University College London (UCL), who carried out the research, said that serious health risks, and to the kidneys in particular, are more likely to occur the more people are exposed to the extreme conditions of space.
Future missions to Mars have not been ruled out, although scientists said steps would need to be taken to protect humans . The spacecraft would also need to be equipped with appropriate tools, such as dialysis machines.
"We know what has happened to astronauts on the relatively short space missions that have taken place so far. There has been an increase in health problems such as kidney stones," said Dr. Keith Siew.
«What we don't know is why these issues occur, nor what will happen to astronauts on longer flights, such as the proposed mission to Mars. Unless we develop new ways to protect the kidneys, an astronaut could make it to Mars, but may need dialysis on the way back.».
See also: The planet Mars is too small to hold water
The scientist also explained that there may be a delay in the appearance of signs of kidney damage. When the signs appear, it is probably too late to prevent the damage, which will affect the success of the mission, in addition to the astronaut himself.
The researchers said that with this study they wanted to emphasize the importance of protecting the health of astronauts in the context of a human mission to Mars.
«You can't protect them from galactic radiation using shielding, but as we learn more about renal biology, it may be possible to develop technological or pharmaceutical measures to facilitate extended space travel.».
The research is described in detail in an article published in the journal Nature Communications.
This discovery raises concerns about the ability of humans to withstand the physical demands of travel and life on Mars. The Red Planet is much further away than the International Space Station (ISS), where most astronauts currently spend their time. This means longer periods of exposure to radiation and other hazards, as well as more physical and psychological challenges.
See also: Mars: 2 billion craters after impact of celestial body
The findings are important because the kidneys play a critical role in filtering and removing substances from the body, as well as regulating blood pressure. Any problems with kidney function could have serious consequences for overall health, especially during long-duration space missions.
Source: www.independent.co.uk
