About space medicine
Space medicine combines many medical specialties to examine the effects of spaceflight on humans and prevent problems associated with living in the unique, isolated, and extreme environment of space. Medical, scientific, and engineering teams work together to maintain the physical, mental, and social well-being of humans in space and upon return to Earth.
The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) medical is responsible for the health and safety of Canadian astronauts. In this context, health is defined as complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease or illness.
Functions
- Medical operations - providing medical support to ensure the health and safety of both Canadian and International Space Station (ISS) astronauts to optimize performance during all phases of training and missions.
- Projects - developing medical technologies and procedures to enhance performance and to prevent, diagnose, and treat illness and injury.