Archive · 26 Jun 2025

How NASA Handles Astronauts' Medical Emergencies In Space

How NASA Handles Astronauts' Medical Emergencies In Space

Astronauts can get sick in space, but they don't have hospitals.

Instead, one astronaut on each mission is trained to be the Crew Medical Officer, like a doctor.

They have a medical kit with medicines and tools.

Doctors on Earth can help them through video calls.

If it's really serious, they can return to Earth in a special capsule.

They also do thorough health checks before the mission to make sure they are healthy.

It is important to manage the condition on board and not to re-enter the Earth's gravity if avoidable.

The biggest risks in space include bone loss, heart problems, and changes to eyesight.

Sources