Spaceflight on the Brain
Jon O'Neill
- Marketing Copywriter
- 386-226-6093
- oneillj5@erau.edu
Long-term spaceflight presents many challenges, including a threat to the health of the human brain.
That problem is hydrocephalus, fluid accumulating in the brain, and it is the focus of research by Embry‑Riddle senior Haleema Irfan ('21), who is majoring in Aerospace Physiology and Human Factors Psychology.
Hydrocephalus is provoked by shifts in the cephalic fluid that occur in microgravity and can cause symptoms that include impaired functioning.
Irfan has her sights set on a sensor that would detect the condition before it poses a problem for astronauts.
"Studying hydrocephalus and its involvement in gravitational stress will allow scientists to better understand cerebral spinal fluid disorders. However, before exploring this condition, a rapid detection method should be created."
Irfan's proposed sensor would detect certain metabolites that are present with hydrocephalus.
Her research is being funded by a Student Internal grant from the Embry‑Riddle Office of Undergraduate Research.