The research they participated in eight people, aimed to simulate microgravity conditions without launching participants into space. Instead, the scientists used special waterbeds to partially simulate weightlessness. Participants had this experience for 3 weeks, and the research team constantly took blood samples from them.

What did scientists understand?

Analysis of the samples collected revealed a significant correlation between time spent in simulated “weightlessness” and a decrease in the activity of T-lymphocytes, the most important component of the immune system responsible for fighting infections.

The most significant reduction in the activity of T-lymphocytes occurred after about two weeks in weightlessness. Although partial recovery was observed afterwards, T-lymphocyte activity remained below normal levels even one week after the end of the experiment.

While these results raise concerns about the potential impact of long-term space travel on the prevalence of the disease, it’s worth noting that the study did not find any life-threatening consequences. So far, astronauts have been able to survive hundreds of days in orbit without serious adverse health consequences.