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Zero T2

NASA astronaut Steve Swanson, equipped with a bungee harness, exercises with a treadmill aboard the International Space Station. The Zero T2 study aims to determine if exercise on a treadmill is necessary to preserve human health and performance during long-duration missions.
Credit: NASA

Description: This study examines how the body is affected by long-duration spaceflight if astronauts exercise on devices other than a treadmill for the entirety of their flight. Historically, astronauts aboard the International Space Station have used a treadmill, along with other exercise devices, to ensure they are fit enough to complete their duties.

However, future long-duration missions, including those to the Moon and Mars, will take place on smaller spacecrafts. Exercise devices will need to be more compact and lightweight than treadmills, which take up a lot of space, power, and resources. This study investigates whether removing the treadmill during long-duration spaceflight affects crew member strength, fitness, bone health, and balance.

Impact: This work will help inform exercise device development, training regimens, and protocols for future deep-space missions.

Type of study: Flight

Formal project title: Exploration Exercise Treadmill Requirements