25 AUG. 2026
Publicatiedatum
424
Weergaven
Life in space may look effortless as astronauts float through the International Space Station, but without the constant pull of gravity, their muscles and balance systems are no longer engaged the way they are on Earth. Over time, this leads to muscle atrophy, reduced strength and changes in neuromuscular control. Counter measures like daily exercise on the T2 treadmill, CEVIS bike and ARED weight‑lifting device help, but cannot fully compensate for the lack of gravity.
Mediamodaal
Matthias Maurer exercising on ARED during the Cosmic Kiss mission
To help protect astronauts during long‑duration missions, scientists are exploring a technique already used on Earth in sports and rehabilitation: whole‑body electro‑myostimulation (WB‑EMS). This method sends mild electrical impulses through the skin to activate specific muscles in a controlled and safe way. The first demonstration of EMS on the ISS, during ESA’s Cosmic Kiss mission, showed promising indications, but more data is needed.
The EasyMotion‑2 experiment aims to test whether adding EMS to an astronaut’s workout routine can better maintain muscle tone, stiffness and functional strength. For about three to four weeks, astronauts will complete EMS‑assisted exercise sessions targeting key muscle groups important for posture and movement, including the neck, back, shoulders, thighs and knees.
Mediamodaal
These measurements are taken before, during and after the flight using various techniques, including myotonometry supported by dynamometry, surface electromyography (sEMG) and structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Comparing these results with extensive MYOTONES data from earlier astronauts who trained without EMS will allow researchers to determine whether EMS provides a clear benefit.
If EMS proves effective, it could reduce muscle loss and possibly shorten the amount of daily exercise astronauts need. This would be a major advantage for future missions to the Moon or Mars, where time and resources are limited. The insights gained from EasyMotion‑2 may also benefit people on Earth who need support with muscle maintenance, from patients recovering after surgery to older adults and individuals with reduced mobility.
Mediamodaal
Mediamodaal
RelaxPro: Helping astronauts sleep and manage stress in space
Astronauts on the International Space Station work in an out-of-this-world environment that is extremely demanding on both body and mind. Disrupted schedules, isolation, workload, physiological changes and extreme conditions can all affect wellbeing and performance. As a result, astronauts often face elevated stress and poor sleep, which can have serious consequences both on their safety and their performance levels.
EasyMotion‑2: Using electrical stimulation to preserve astronaut muscles in space
Life in space may look effortless as astronauts float through the International Space Station, but without the constant pull of gravity, their muscles and balance systems are no longer engaged the way they are on Earth. Over time, this leads to muscle atrophy, reduced strength and changes in neuromuscular control. Counter measures like daily exercise on the T2 treadmill, CEVIS bike and ARED weight‑lifting device help, but cannot fully compensate for the lack of gravity.
Deze pagina delen
blijf op de hoogte
Abonneer je op onze nieuwsbrief om het laatste nieuws, missie-updates en exclusieve inzichten rechtstreeks in je inbox te ontvangen. Wees als eerste op de hoogte van onze aankomende projecten en doorbraken.