Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #32345: Where Does the Water Go? Studying Fluid Shifts in Space with Sprut-2

Have you ever noticed how astronauts’ faces look puffier in space? It’s not weight gain—it’s fluid shift. In microgravity, bodily fluids move differently, causing changes in blood flow and pressure. The Sprut-2 experiment, led by V. Noskov from the Institute for Biomedical Problems, took a deep dive into understanding this phenomenon.

Conducted during multiple ISS expeditions, Sprut-2 examined how fluids are redistributed within the human body over long-term space missions. Using non-invasive ultrasound and other monitoring tools, researchers observed changes in tissue hydration, blood distribution, and overall body composition.

This research is critical. If fluids build up in the upper body, they can lead to vision problems, cardiovascular stress, and other health risks. By understanding these changes, scientists can design better countermeasures—like special clothing or routines—to protect astronauts.

The insights from Sprut-2 also help patients on Earth with conditions like heart failure or kidney disease, where fluid management is vital.

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