Astronauts' brains change shape in space: study reveals lasting effects.

According to ТСН: Prolonged space expeditions lead to physical changes in the shape and position of the brain within the skull. These changes remain noticeable even six months after returning to Earth.

The conclusions are drawn from a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

It turns out that after being in microgravity, astronauts' brains shift "upward and backward" inside the skull, with the most significant transformations observed in sensory and motor areas.

How the study was conducted

Researchers analyzed MRI data from 26 astronauts collected before and after their flights. For comparison, results from examinations of 24 civilian volunteers, who were in a prolonged bed rest condition with their heads tilted downward, were used to simulate the effects of microgravity on fluid distribution in the body.

The scientists made the following conclusions:

• The changes depend on the duration of the mission. The greatest deformations were observed in those who spent about a year in space. However, even two-week flights leave a noticeable mark.

• In addition to vertical displacement, non-linear lateral deformations were recorded, which differ in the upper and lower parts of the brain.

• Although most indicators return to normal within six months of landing, certain structural changes persist for longer.

Co-author of the research, Professor Rachel Seydler from the University of Florida, commented to NBC that understanding these processes is critically important for the safety of future journeys, particularly to Mars.

“We need to understand these changes and their impact to maintain the health of astronauts and ensure their longevity,” emphasized Seydler.

Scientists plan additional research to clarify how these physical shifts affect cognitive functions and crew performance during complex tasks in space.

Recall that earlier there was talk about a 10-second signal from the farthest corner of the Universe. This corner is located 13 billion light-years away, scientists note.