China’s space medicine advances pave the way for lunar and deep space missions

The event focused on the role of space medicine in ensuring astronaut survival during deep space missions.

China’s advancements in space medicine are set to bolster future space exploration efforts, particularly manned lunar landings and deep space missions, according to experts at a two-day forum held in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. The Second Frontier Forum of Space Medicine, which commenced on Saturday, brought together scholars and specialists to discuss cutting-edge developments in the field.

The event focused on the role of space medicine in ensuring astronaut survival during deep space missions. Experts exchanged theories and shared insights on key topics, such as health protection for astronauts and the development of medical technologies essential for space exploration.

Yang Liwei, China’s first taikonaut and deputy chief designer of the country’s manned space programme, emphasised that space medicine is pivotal to China’s future in space. He highlighted its contribution to both the operation of China’s space station and upcoming manned lunar missions. These developments, he said, offer new prospects for the advancement of space medicine.

Li Yinghui, a researcher at the China Astronaut Research and Training Centre, noted that China would enhance its in-orbit protection systems. The country is focusing on strengthening its medical research capabilities to support long-term human missions in deep space, including studies on the cardiovascular system, musculoskeletal health, human ageing, and the screening of space-friendly drugs.

The forum further underscored the importance of space medicine for public health. It was suggested that the knowledge gained from studying the effects of space on human biology could benefit various areas of medical science on Earth.

China’s progress in this field is expected to contribute significantly to the global body of research, ultimately supporting humanity’s long-term presence beyond Earth.

Credit:  Xinhua News Agency