Key Takeaways
- NASA is researching ways to keep astronauts safe and healthy on longer duration missions
- Mini x-ray technology could be used to diagnose breaks and cavities in astronauts
- University Hospitals is partnering with NASA to test mini x-ray technology and provide feedback from radiologists
- The goal is to select the best miniaturized x-ray system for use in future space missions
- The study will involve comparing traditional x-rays with mini x-rays to determine the effectiveness of the technology
Introduction to the Partnership
A unique partnership between a Northeast Ohio hospital network and NASA is underway, with the goal of making space safer for astronauts. NASA is currently researching ways to keep astronauts healthy and safe on longer duration missions, such as trips to the moon and Mars. As part of this effort, NASA is exploring the use of mini x-ray technology to diagnose breaks and cavities in astronauts. To ensure the best miniature x-ray model is selected for use in space, NASA is seeking the opinions of radiologists at University Hospitals.
The Need for Mini X-Ray Technology
According to Cy Peverill, NASA Glenn Research Center project task lead, the current miniaturized x-rays in space are not sufficient for the needs of astronauts on longer missions. Peverill’s team is working to change this by selecting the best miniaturized x-ray system for use in future space missions. The goal is to include these systems in the required medical equipment for longer exploratory space missions. X-rays could be helpful in diagnosing equipment issues, such as cracks and crevices in spacesuits, as well as medical issues, such as broken bones and cavities.
The Role of University Hospitals
University Hospitals is playing a crucial role in the development of mini x-ray technology for use in space. The hospital’s radiologists will be providing feedback on the effectiveness of the technology by comparing traditional x-rays with mini x-rays. David Jordan, the Chief Medical Physicist for Radiology and Radiation Safety at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, explained that patients who need an x-ray will be able to participate in the study by receiving a traditional x-ray followed by a mini x-ray. The doctors will then evaluate the images and provide feedback to NASA’s medical team.
The Study and Its Goals
The study, which is expected to begin soon, will provide valuable data to help NASA select the best miniaturized x-ray system for use in space. The data will be instrumental in helping NASA determine which system is most effective and reliable. Peverill noted that the partnership between NASA and University Hospitals is a new and exciting endeavor, and that the results of the study could have a significant impact on the health and safety of astronauts in the future. If the study is successful, it could lead to the development of mini x-ray technology that can be used on future space missions, benefiting astronauts for years to come.
The Future of Space Exploration
The partnership between NASA and University Hospitals is an example of the collaborative efforts underway to advance space exploration. As NASA plans to send astronauts to the moon and Mars, the need for reliable and effective medical technology is becoming increasingly important. The development of mini x-ray technology is just one example of the innovative solutions being explored to address the challenges of space travel. With the help of partners like University Hospitals, NASA is working to ensure that astronauts have access to the best possible medical care, even in the vastness of space.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the partnership between NASA and University Hospitals is an exciting development in the field of space exploration. The use of mini x-ray technology has the potential to greatly improve the health and safety of astronauts on longer duration missions. With the help of radiologists at University Hospitals, NASA is one step closer to selecting the best miniaturized x-ray system for use in space. As the study gets underway, researchers are hopeful that the results will pave the way for the development of innovative medical technology that will benefit astronauts for years to come.
