Are Our Hearts Strong Enough to Get to Mars?

Space travel can have detrimental effects on the circulatory system. Overcoming the hurdles involved in a future on Mars is essential, with psychological and physiological challenges being the toughest. The journey to Mars will take over a year, and the lack of gravity can cause muscle atrophy and cardiovascular strain. A recent study published in the journal Circulation reveals that these challenges may not be as insurmountable as once thought.

Upon returning to Earth after brief space travel, astronauts often experience dizzy spells and a sudden drop in blood pressure. Martian conditions, however, present an entirely new set of challenges. Astronauts would face prolonged weightlessness, followed by microgravity, which could lead to muscle and cardiac mass loss. The key to mitigating these effects lies in regular exercise.

A Northwestern University study involving 13 astronauts aboard the International Space Station for 160 days examined the impact of exercise on their hearts. The astronauts engaged in a NASA workout consisting of up to two hours of daily exercise, including endurance and resistance training. Initial ultrasounds after two weeks of space travel showed reduced blood filling and pumping in the heart, as well as other cardiac health measures.

However, as the astronauts continued working out, their heart metrics improved and approached pre-flight levels. Returning to Earth, the astronauts were tilted at a 22-degree angle to simulate Martian gravity, and their hearts handled the simulated environment well. With these findings, a future Mars mission might be more feasible.

However, there are still several hurdles to overcome. Nonetheless, the researchers are optimistic, stating, "Clear eyes, full hearts, can't lose."