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How Long-Term Space Travel Wears Down an Astronaut's Mind and Body

The article from MSN discusses the profound effects of long-term space travel on astronauts' minds and bodies. It highlights how the microgravity environment leads to muscle atrophy and bone density loss, as muscles and bones do not have to work against gravity. Additionally, the article touches on the psychological impacts, including isolation, confinement, and the stress of living in a high-risk environment, which can lead to cognitive decline, mood changes, and sleep disturbances. NASA and other space agencies are researching countermeasures like exercise routines, nutritional supplements, and psychological support to mitigate these effects. The piece also mentions the case of astronaut Scott Kelly, who spent nearly a year in space, providing valuable data on how the human body adapts to extended periods in space. This research is crucial for planning future long-duration missions, such as those to Mars, where astronauts might spend years away from Earth.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/science/physics/how-long-term-space-travel-wears-down-an-astronaut-s-mind-and-body/ar-AA1A32no ]