Abstract

Space travel, particularly long-duration missions beyond Earth’s orbit, presents unique challenges to human physiology, with cardiovascular health emerging as a critical concern. This review examines the impacts of space travel on cardiovascular physiology and health, focusing on both short-term and long-term effects. During spaceflight, astronauts experience physiological changes such as fluid shift towards the upper body, decreased blood volume, and alterations in cardiac function due to microgravity. These changes can lead to orthostatic intolerance upon return to Earth, posing risks during reentry and landing phases. Long-term exposure to space conditions may exacerbate cardiovascular deconditioning, including muscle atrophy in the heart, reduced aerobic capacity, and impaired orthostatic tolerance. These effects have significant implications for the health and safety of astronauts during extended missions, potentially compromising their ability to perform critical tasks. Strategies to mitigate cardiovascular deconditioning include exercise regimens, pharmacological interventions, and advanced countermeasures. However, challenges remain in developing effective and feasible interventions for long-duration space missions. In conclusion, understanding the impacts of space travel on cardiovascular physiology is crucial for optimizing astronaut health and performance during current and future space exploration endeavors. Further research is needed to develop targeted countermeasures and ensure safe and successful human missions beyond Earth’s orbit.