LBNP – Space Countermeasure
Novel Mobile Lower Body Negative Pressure Device for Orthostatic Training in Microgravity
Date :
State of progress:
In progress
Objective:
Countermeasures for the effects of microgravity
during long crewed spaceflights
Partners:
MEDES, Safran Aerosystems, CNES-CADMOS
CONTEXT
During crewed spaceflights, when astronauts are exposed to microgravity for a long period, their bodies are subject to many changes such as the headward body fluids shift.
The objective of the mobile LBNP is to provide a countermeasure against this phenomenon.
DESCRIPTION
Driven by ESA, the newly designed LBNP proposed by the consortium (MEDES/SAFRAN/CNES) is intended to provide a body fluid shift towards the lower parts while the user is performing daily activities and exercises.
As countermeasure, the LBNP use is intended to prevent:
- post flight orthostatic intolerance
- cardiovascular deconditioning
- occurrence of Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (so called SANS)
The prototype is composed of trousers to make negative pressure around the lower parts of the body and a pump powered by a battery.
MEDES CONTRIBUTION
Within this project MEDES performs:
- the project coordination : MEDES is the main interface with ESA and all partners of the consortium
- the state-of-the-art during the early steps of the projects
- prepare and execute the validation campaign including the volunteers within the space clinic.
PERSPECTIVES
The prototype should be fully completed during the first semester 2024 after a validation campaign involving volunteers at the space clinic.
In case of success, new editions of the LBNP could be produced to be used promptly during clinical studies such as bed rests or dry immersions.
Ultimately, a flight model of the mobile LBNP should be produced to be used by astronauts in space during mission duration.
