Experts discuss the immense potential of conducting experiments and manufacturing goods in space. They explore how this could enhance our understanding of health issues, unveil new discoveries, and produce innovative technology for use on Earth. The conversation encompasses collaborations between various industries and scientists, aiming to explore the distinct conditions in space to enhance life for all. Featuring: Catriona Jamieson, M.D., Ph.D. UC San Diego Jana Stoudemire, M.Bio. Axiom Space Alain Berinstain, Ph.D. Space Tango Marc Giulianotti, Ph.D. Sierra Space Kevin Engelbert, M.S.F. NAS ..read more

Astronaut Peggy Whitson, Ph.D., and Lisa Carnell, Ph.D., discuss various aspects of space exploration, life in microgravity, and the future of space science and research. They delve into the challenges astronauts face, from taste differences in space to innovative 3D printing solutions. The conversation also highlights the importance of stem cell research, personalized medicine, and drug development in space. Whitson's unique perspective offers insights into the awe-inspiring views of Earth from space and the collective responsibility to protect our planet. This thought-provoking discussion ex ..read more

UC San Diego Professor of Sociology and Co-Director of the Institute of Practical Ethics, John Evans discusses the work of Kyoto Prize laureate Bruno Latour with UC San Diego Professor Emerita of Communication and Science Studies Chandra Mukerji. Latour has revolutionized the conventional view of science by treating nature, humans, laboratory equipment, and other entities as equal actors, and describing technoscience as the hybrid network of these actors. His philosophy re-examines "modernity" based on the dualism of nature and society. He has a large influence across disciplines, with his mul ..read more

Erik Viirre, MD, PhD, Christopher Mason, PhD, Jana Stoudemire, and Brinda Rana, MD, discuss how what we learn from space flight could impact terrestrial health as well as the health of future astronauts. Series: "Stem Cell Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 37559 ..read more

To study aging, scientists are looking to outer space. Space travel causes changes to the body that are similar to aging. Dr. Sonja Schrepfer, UCSF Division of Adult Cardiothoracic Surgery, investigates space-related physiological changes, similar to those observed during aging, including defects in bone healing, loss of cardiovascular and neurological capacity, and altered immune function. Series: "Mini Medical School for the Public" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 36869 ..read more

Dr. Serena M. Auñón recently served as Flight Engineer on the International Space Station for Expeditions 56 and 57. She discusses her time on orbit, where the crews contributed to hundreds of experiments in biology, biotechnology, physical science and Earth science aboard the International Space Station. Investigations were led into new cancer treatment methods and algae growth in space. Series: "Mini Medical School for the Public" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 36868 ..read more

Prolonged exposure to microgravity experienced by astronauts in space is known to cause low back pain and a heightened risk of intervertebral disc herniations following space flight. Jeff Lotz, Professor, Vice Chair for Research, UCSF Orthopaedic Surgery, discusses what has been learned about back pain and spinal degeneration. Series: "Mini Medical School for the Public" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 37079 ..read more

Dr. Jonathan Clark explores enabling technologies and how they've been used in advancing humans in space while also having impacts on terrestrial applications. Clark worked at NASA from 1997 to 2005 and was a Space Shuttle Crew Surgeon on six shuttle missions and was Chief of the Medical Operations Branch. Series: "Mini Medical School for the Public" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 37005 ..read more

The environment of long-duration spaceflight causes major disruption to all aspects of human functioning, including the musculoskeletal system. But astronauts are not the only ones that worry about bone loss. All those who suffer from osteoporosis have issues with bone density and strength. Researchers hope that looking at the problem of bone loss in space will help the disease on Earth. Series: "Mini Medical School for the Public" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 36867 ..read more

Galactic Cosmic Rays (GCR) penetrate the hull of spacecraft and cause physiological changes to those within. Susanna Rosi, UCSF Professor and Director of Neurocognitive Research, explains the effects. Series: "Mini Medical School for the Public" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 36866 ..read more