Advancing Neuroscience in Space:

Axiom Space and Cortivision Collaborate on the Ax-3 Research Mission to the ISS

In a remarkable leap forward for space research, Axiom Space and Cortivision have joined forces on the Ax-3 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). As an official partner of the mission, Cortivision is set to play a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of human brain activity in microgravity conditions. This collaboration marks the second mission where Cortivision’s devices will be utilized to monitor how the brain functions in the unique environment of Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

Axiom Space, a pioneer in commercial spaceflight, has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of space exploration. With a commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration, Axiom Space recognizes the importance of interdisciplinary partnerships to drive scientific progress. The Ax-3 mission is a testament to Axiom Space’s dedication to advancing our understanding of the human body’s response to microgravity.

Cortivision, an industry challenger in portable neuroscience, has been selected as an official partner for the Ax-3 mission. Building on the success of previous collaborations, Cortivision’s devices will be deployed on the ISS to monitor astronauts’ brain activity. This marks a significant step forward in the exploration of how the brain functions in a microgravity environment.

Brain Activity Monitoring in Microgravity

During the Ax-3 mission, the crew members will represent their nations in LEO and perform scientific experiments and demonstrations that are of high national importance. More than 30 different experiments will be conducted while aboard the space station. Data collected on ground before and after the mission as well as in flight will impact understanding of human physiology on Earth and on orbit, as well as advance scientific understanding, harness opportunities for industrial advancements, and develop technologies for humanity’s progress.

One of the key objectives of the Ax-3 mission is to investigate the impact of microgravity on brain activity. Cortivision’s state-of-the-art devices are designed to measure relative changes in blood oxygenation with precision, providing invaluable insights into the changes that occur in the brain when exposed to the unique conditions of space. This research not only enhances our understanding of human physiology but also contributes to the development of strategies to support the mental well-being of astronauts during extended space missions.

Cortivision strongly supports the experiment called Orital Architecture led by KTH Royal Institute of Technology, performed by a swedish astronaut Markus Wandt. Architecture is known to play a crucial role in shaping physical and social environments and have a direct impact on human physical and psychological well-being. This study aims to investigate the effects of architectural settings, as well as its properties on an astronaut’s cognitive performance, stress levels, and stress recovery rate. This activity looks to study the effects between the above-mentioned factors in isolated and confined environments on Earth and in space analog missions, which are similarly observed in the environment of a space station.

Building on Previous Success: The collaboration between Axiom Space and Cortivision on the Ax-3 mission builds upon the success of previous missions where Cortivision devices were utilized for brain activity monitoring in space during Ax-2 mission. By leveraging the data collected from multiple missions, researchers can identify patterns and trends, paving the way for more targeted and informed approaches to space travel.

The findings from the Ax-3 mission have far-reaching implications for the future of space exploration. Understanding how the human brain adapts to microgravity conditions is essential for planning long-duration missions, such as those to Mars. The collaboration between Axiom Space and Cortivision is not only advancing our knowledge of space medicine but is also contributing to the development of technologies that will support the health and well-being of astronauts on future interplanetary missions.

The “Ax-3” research mission to the ISS represents a groundbreaking collaboration between Axiom Space and Cortivision, showcasing the power of interdisciplinary partnerships in advancing space research. As astronauts embark on this mission, equipped with Cortivision’s innovative devices, we anticipate a wealth of data that will deepen our understanding of how the human brain responds to the challenges of microgravity. This collaboration not only marks a significant milestone in space exploration but also holds the promise of shaping the future of human spaceflight.