A new study has found that astronauts’ brains continue to behave as if gravity exists, even after months in space. Published on April 20 in the Journal of Neuroscience, the research suggests that the human brain retains a deep-rooted memory of gravity that shapes basic physical actions.
Led by Philippe Lefèvre, a professor of Biomedical Engineering at Université Catholique de Louvain and Ikerbasque, the study tracked 11 astronauts aboard the International Space Station over missions lasting up to six months. Researchers found that astronauts continued to grip objects unevenly, overcompensating as if gravity were still pulling them down.
Even after returning to Earth, astronauts initially handled objects as though they were still in zero gravity. However, their motor skills quickly readjusted within a few repetitions, showing the brain’s ability to relearn familiar conditions faster than it adapts to new ones.
In the past five decades, fewer than 700 astronauts have flown into space. From a young age, we are subjected to ideas of glory and gain when we think of what it would be like to become one of them. But here’s the truth: not only does it require a tremendous amount of professional training, but it also has a monumental impact on the human body.
Curious to learn more about how the body reacts in zero gravity? Click through the gallery to find out.