A pioneering scientific expedition to the International Space Station is underway to examine the effects of cosmic radiation on drugs and medications intended for future Mars missions. The United Kingdom has partnered with a Lithuania-based space health company to conduct unique experiments in space. Selected medicines are being tested to observe their reactions to prolonged exposure to cosmic radiation, with the aim of ensuring their efficacy for astronauts traveling to Mars.
Scientist Dominykas Milašius highlighted the significance of exploring Mars as the next frontier and emphasized the importance of utilizing near space as an exploration environment to safeguard astronauts during extended missions. He mentioned that the UK’s strong focus on life sciences and advancements in space technology creates a conducive environment for collaborations that can enhance space missions.
In preparation for a three-year Mars expedition with no resupply options, the UK Space Agency, Cambridge firm LinkGevity, and Delta Biosciences are working together to develop and test radiation-resistant medicines. Delta Biosciences’ co-founder, Milašius, explained that medications are typically developed and stored on Earth under the protection of the planet’s atmosphere and magnetic field. However, in deep space, astronauts face exposure to cosmic rays and solar particle events that can potentially damage cells and alter the molecular structures of drugs.
Research has indicated that radiation can significantly reduce the shelf life of certain medications, posing a critical challenge for long-duration space missions where resupply or evacuation options are limited. Milašius stated that the goal is to create a medical kit for Mars missions that ensures the effectiveness of medicines throughout the entire expedition period.
The harsh reality of space medicine lies in the vulnerability of drugs to cosmic radiation, which can lead to their degradation or chemical alteration. Medications must be redesigned with radiation-resistant formulations to prevent any loss of potency or efficacy during the journey to Mars. The ongoing efforts to test and enhance medicines in space aim to mitigate the risks associated with carrying a medical kit that may become ineffective millions of miles away from Earth.