April 17, 2025—Living in space isn't easy. Since the first humans traveled in space, we've been studying the physical and mental challenges astronauts face. And the lessons we've learned just might help you on your own wellness journey.
Health hazard: Space radiation
Venturing beyond Earth's protective magnetosphere exposes astronauts to harmful radiation. Scientists are working on designing protective shields for long journeys to places like Mars.
On Earth, we have natural shields. But we still have to defend against the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation, a preventable skin cancer risk. Shield yourself with sunscreen—and check out this infographic for some key sun-safety tips.
Health hazard: Isolation and loneliness
Life in space has its rewards. But it also means being far from friends and family. For astronauts, isolation can lead to issues like:
- Poor sleep.
- Fatigue.
- Low mood.
Astronauts make an effort to stay connected—with each other and with their lives on earth. A key element: video chats with loved ones. Exercising and eating healthy foods helps astronauts practice mind and body fitness, helping them cope with the stress of their mission.
Healthy lifestyle choices help manage stress and support resilience on Earth too. And building and maintaining social connections reduces feelings of isolation, which may lead to depression. Sometimes you have to venture out of your comfort zone. Learn how.
Health hazard: Low gravity and bone loss
Astronauts experience microgravity, which makes them seem to float weightlessly. The problem is that their bones can weaken without the full force of gravity against them. Bone loss can lead to osteoporosis, which makes bones weak and more likely to break.
Exercise can help prevent bone loss, so space station crews schedule time for fitness—about two hours per day, on average.
Even on Earth, bone loss, known as osteoporosis, is a common problem as people get older. Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, make the most of Earth's gravity, forcing muscles and bones to work harder—and stay stronger.
Health hazard: Vast distances
If an emergency happens in space, astronauts know they have to be ready to help themselves. Any assistance would take time to prepare and travel vast distances—like the 238,855 miles from Earth to the moon.
Emergency care is obviously quicker to arrive when you can call 911. But knowing first aid can still be lifesaving. And natural disasters and other events mean preparedness is still a good idea.
You can start by taking our disaster preparedness quiz—see if you can separate fact from fiction. And then find out how to make a first aid kit and a family emergency plan.
Sources
- American Academy of Dermatology. "Sunscreen FAQs." https://www.aad.org/media/stats-sunscreen.
- American Red Cross. "What Do You Need in a Survival Kit?" https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/survival-kit-supplies.html.
- HelpGuide. "Loneliness and Isolation." https://www.helpguide.org/relationships/social-connection/loneliness-and-social-isolation.
- NASA. "Isolation—What Can We Learn From the Experiences of NASA Astronauts?" https://www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/isolation-what-can-we-learn-from-the-experiences-of-nasa-astronauts.
- NASA. "Mental Well-Being in Space." https://www.nasa.gov/missions/station/iss-research/mental-well-being-in-space.
- NASA. "Risk of Radiation-Induced Cancers." https://www.nasa.gov/reference/risk-of-radiation-induced-cancers.
- NASA. "What Happens to the Human Body in Space?" https://www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/human-body-in-space-infographic.
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. "Exercise for Your Bone Health." https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/exercise-your-bone-health.