Journal
LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH
Volume 11, Issue -, Pages 1-9Publisher
ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV
DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2016.09.001
Keywords
Hibernation; Space radiation; Radioprotection; Space exploration; Torpor
Funding
- National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN) under grant HIBRAD [CSN5]
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Hibernation is a state of reduced metabolic activity used by some animals to survive in harsh environmental conditions. The idea of exploiting hibernation for space exploration has been proposed many years ago, but in recent years it is becoming more realistic, thanks to the introduction of specific methods to induce hibernation-like conditions (synthetic torpor) in non-hibernating animals. In addition to the expected advantages in long-term exploratory-class missions in terms of resource consumptions, aging, and psychology, hibernation may provide protection from cosmic radiation damage to the crew. Data from over half century ago in animal models suggest indeed that radiation effects are reduced during hibernation. We will review the mechanisms of increased radioprotection in hibernation, and discuss possible impact on human space exploration. (C) 2016 The Committee on Space Research (COSPAR). Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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