Mental Health in Space

Categories: Biomedical Science

Astronauts on long–duration space missions will have increasing potential for feelings of isolation, trouble sleeping, and mental health issues caused by environmental and physiological changes.

Come up with a new solution to help

Create a way to help mitigate problems associated with potential mental health issues in space especially on long duration space flight. (This would also be called a countermeasure).

• Look at sleep issues in space.
• Look at isolation issues in space.
• Look at technology we have today that might help with mental health.

Sleep Issues

• Astronauts see 16 sunsets and 16 sunrises
• Circadiam Rhythm is off
• Primary lighting on Station is Blue light with certain wavelength
• Affects the hormone Melatonin
• Radiation hits to optic nerve and the crewmember sees flashes of light
• Sleep deprivation can cause issues with alertness, motor speed, and anxiety, as well as a host of other issues

Interested on working with this project? Invite your school, coordinate with NASA admins, and Get started!