{pdf} Committee for the Decadal Survey on Biological and Physical Sciences in Space; Space Studies Board; National Research Council Research for a Future in Space: The Role of Life and Physical Sciences

NAS Press, 2012 . – 33 pages
ISBN: 0309261031 9780309261036This book explains how unique characteristics of the space environment can be used to address complex problems in the life and physical sciences. It also helps deliver both new knowledge and practical benefits for humankind as it embarks on a new era of space exploration.During its more than 50-year history, NASA’s success in human exploration has depended on the agency’s ability to effectively address a wide range of biomedical, engineering, physical sciences, and related obstacles. This achievement is made possible by NASA’s strong and productive commitments to life and physical sciences research for human space exploration, and by its use of human space exploration infrastructures for scientific discovery.This issue is based on the in depth report, Recapturing a Future for Space Exploration: Life and Physical Sciences Research for a New Era.ContentsResearch for a Future in Space
The Issues of Bone Loss & Nutritional Needs in Space
Preventing Bone Loss ? Nutrition and Space Foods
Shifts in Astronaut Health During Long Periods in Space
Chronic Sleep Loss in Space ? Shifts in Cardiovascular Health
Coping with Confined Space Environments
Monitoring Brain and Behavioral Functions in Astronauts ?
Group Dynamics in an Extreme Environment
The Roles of Plant & Microbial Growth
Up-Rooted: Plant Growth in Space ?
Managing Microbes as Spaceflight Companions
The Risk of Cellular & Genetic Changes in Long-Term Space Travel
Muscle Weakness and Protein Degradation ? Radiation During Spaceflight
The Nature of Fluid Physics in Space
Recycling Air and Water in Spacecraft ?
Addressing Other Aspects of Fluid Physics in Space
Issues in Fire Behavior & Safety: Prevention, Detection, Suppression
Combustion and Fire Behavior in Reduced Gravity ?
Fire Safety and Prevention in Space
The Matter of Materials & the Relativity of Time
Weighing the Matter of Materials ? Exploring Space and Time
Essential Technologies for Space Suits
Engineering a Personal, Portable Atmosphere ?
Exploration Enabled by Space Suit Technology
Living Off the Land: Using In-Situ Materials
Harnessing Non-Terrestrial Resources for Exploration Technologies ?
Space Construction with Earth-Tested Methods
Report Recommendations