Research explores the effect of long-term space missions on the eye

Research published in IEEE Open Journal of Engineering in Medicine and Biology has explored the effect on the eye of spending long periods of time in space.

University of Montreal scientists examined optical coherence tomography scans and tonometer data from 13 astronauts who spent between 157 and 186 days on the International Space Station.

The average age of the astronauts was 48, while 31% of study participants were female. Eight of the astronauts involved in the study were completing their first mission in space.

The researchers found that the astronauts experienced an average decrease in intraocular pressure of 11%.

They also found that the study participants had a 33% reduction in ocular rigidity and a 25% decrease in ocular pulse amplitude.

No significant differences were observed between astronauts on their first space mission and experienced astronauts.

The authors highlighted that the findings reveal how long-term space missions “significantly alter” ocular biomechanics

“These findings reveal previously unknown effects of microgravity on the eye's mechanical properties, contributing to a deeper understanding of Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome,” the authors highlighted.

They noted that the small sample size should be considered when interpreting the study findings.

“However, it is remarkable that almost every astronaut showed reduced ocular rigidity following return to earth,” they emphasised.