Space health system: How are astronauts treated if they get sick in space? Find out...
In a proud moment for India, Shubanshu Shukla marked his place in history by joining four astronauts aboard NASA and SpaceX's Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, which successfully launched into space at 12:01 PM. As India celebrates this milestone, curiosity naturally arises about life beyond Earth — especially how astronauts manage health-related challenges in the extreme and isolated environment of space.
The environment aboard a space station is vastly different from life on Earth, and so is its healthcare system. The International Space Station (ISS) is equipped with a comprehensive and up-to-date medical kit designed to treat a wide range of conditions — from minor illnesses to medical emergencies. The kit includes supplies for treating nausea, fever, wounds, and infections, as well as basic equipment like painkillers, blood pressure monitors, and blood sugar testing devices. If an astronaut suffers an injury, antibiotics and wound-cleaning medications are readily available.
In addition, every astronaut is trained in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and basic medical procedures, ensuring that they can care for themselves and assist their crewmates. Each space crew also includes a designated medical officer, responsible for handling health concerns and administering treatment when needed. Life in space poses unique health risks. The immune system tends to weaken in microgravity, and illnesses can spread faster due to the closed environment. That’s why astronauts undergo extensive medical screening before their mission and only those with high levels of physical fitness and adaptability to environmental changes are selected.
To address unforeseen issues, medical experts on Earth are always on standby to provide real-time advice and remote consultations. In critical situations, the ISS is equipped with emergency spacecraft (lifeboats) that can quickly return an ill astronaut to Earth for advanced treatment. Diet and physical fitness also play a vital role in maintaining health in space. Astronauts follow strict diet plans and exercise routines to strengthen immunity and minimize the risk of falling ill.
While healthcare in space is incredibly advanced, it is also a testament to how humanity prepares for the unexpected in the most extraordinary of settings. As missions grow longer and ventures into deep space become a reality, the development of autonomous medical care systems aboard spacecraft is becoming increasingly crucial. With pioneers like Shubanshu Shukla now joining the ranks, India's footprint in space continues to grow — and with it, our understanding of life and survival beyond Earth.