Physiologic Response to Microgravity

Physiology in microgravity is a challenging field of research because of limited resources. Though humans have been in space for 50 years most meaningful data has been collected only within the last 15 years. While expensive studies with small sample sizes make obtaining and interpreting data difficult, some general conclusions about the human physiological response to microgravity can be drawn. A redistribution of bodily fluids is believed to initiate change in cardiovascular and respiratory function. The mechanisms for these changes have been studied very little are not well understood. Long term effects of microgravity on the body have been impossible to study in the past. Larger studies must be done for increased time periods in order to better characterize the underlying physiological mechanisms involved in the body’s response to