More than many terrestrial variables, does spending considerable time in space affect an astronaut? The present record for one single trip in space stands at 437 days but long stay in microgravity has debilitating effects on muscles, the brain, and even gut bacteria diversity. NASA astronaut Frank Rubio also went through similar adjustments in body functioning while on the longest space mission by any American of 371 days.
It was a Long Way- proving a point why Frank Rubio Mission was So Important
Frank Rubio made his way out of the International Space Station on the 6th of October 2023 after 371 days of activity in space. He has broken the previous U.S. record for time in space which was 355 days. The return of Rubio was expected in March 2023 but because of a coolant leak in his vehicle, the mission got prolonged. Before completion of the mission, Rubio was able to do 5963 Earth revolves covering over 157 million miles.
Longest Spaceflights in History
While Rubio’s mission was commendable, he did not surpass the record that belongs to Russian cosmonaut Valery Polyakov who spent 437 days in space in the very same Mir Space Station. More recently, in September 2024, Russian cosmonauts Oleg Kononenko and Nikolai Chub established a new record at the ISS, being in space for 374 days. Space record for most time spent in a single day may now belong to Kononenko at 1111 days.
The Physical Impact of Prolonged Space Missions Frank RubioÂ
Prolonged space travel has such serious effects on the human body. The missions of Rubio and other astronauts allowed them to learn how the human organism tolerates microgravity for a long time. The above considerations are relevant for future deep space exploration, like a trip to Mars which could take more than three years.
Deterioration of Muscles and Bones
One of the chief concerns or effects of space travel is the deterioration of bone and muscle mass because the influence of gravity is absent. Posture-propagating muscles like those in the back, neck, and legs deteriorate in microgravity environments. In two weeks, astronauts are at risk of losing 20% of their muscle mass, and after 3 to 6 months, 30% loss occurs.
Conclusion: Being Ready for the Next Space Journey
Missions by Rubio and others are going a long way in assisting scientists in overcoming the problems of going to space for a long time. As humanity strives to go deeper in space explorations, such studies will be important for ensuring the health and safety of space travelers of tomorrow.
