Torpor is a state of profound metabolic slowdown commonly observed in hibernating animals, allowing them to conserve energy and survive in harsh environmental conditions. STASH will investigate the possibility of inducing drowsiness in humans to reduce the harmful effects of microgravity, cosmic radiation and isolation on the body.
Initially, the experiment will be carried out on rodents, and the rodents will be kept in rooms with temperatures up to 4°C to induce torpor. Real-time monitoring of oxygen consumption, body temperature, and heart rate will provide valuable information on the physiological effects of drowsiness in humans.
If successful, STASH could create a breakthrough in human spaceflight and allow astronauts to go on longer, more ambitious missions. Hibernation will help protect crew health, reduce the need for resupply, and minimize the impact of cramped living conditions and waste disposal problems.
Source: Ferra
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