Long-Duration Spaceflight
Long-Duration Spaceflight refers to missions in space that extend over an extended period, typically involving durations of several months to years. These missions involve human space travelers living and working in a space environment beyond the Earth’s atmosphere for extended lengths of time. Long-duration spaceflights require careful planning related to the physical and psychological well-being of astronauts, as well as technological solutions for life support, food production, waste management, and habitat sustainability. Such missions are essential for advancing our understanding of space travel’s effects on the human body, preparing for potential missions to Mars and beyond, and conducting scientific research that takes advantage of the unique conditions of microgravity. The International Space Station (ISS) is a key example of a platform that facilitates long-duration missions for astronauts from various space agencies. Research conducted during long-duration missions contributes to our knowledge of human adaptation to space, enhancing future exploration efforts.