Studying eye health in space with astronaut Matthias Maurer

Uploaded on October 13, 2022

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Studying eye health in space with astronaut Matthias Maurer

2022-10-13 – European Space Agency astronaut Matthias Maurer explains how a Canadian experiment is investigating vision changes experienced by astronauts during six-month missions aboard the International Space Station.

The SANSORI study, led by researchers from the Université de Montréal, is examining whether a rigid eye structure helps protect astronauts' eyesight. (Credits: Canadian Space Agency, NASA, European Space Agency, Rosemont-Maisonneuve Hospital)

Hi! I’m ESA astronaut Matthias Maurer. Welcome on board the International Space Station.

When we’re in space, our eyesight can change. We can experience blurry vision, and it may become harder to perceive depth.

Living away from Earth’s gravity puts strain on the delicate parts of the eye.

Vision changes may last for years after return. But some astronauts experience no effects at all.

Some researchers believe individual differences in eye structure and rigidity may play a role.

With the help of the Canadian Space Agency, the SANSORI study preformed by a team led by Dr. Santiago Costantino is taking a closer look.

They’ll test whether astronauts with a less flexible eye structure are protected from eyesight changes.

Crewmembers taking part in the SANSORI study, like me, will have images and measurements taken, to track the shape and the pressure of their eyes.

The benefits of SANSORI aren’t just for astronauts.

This research could provide insight into conditions experienced on Earth as well: vision problems – like glaucoma – or issues caused by increased pressure in the head.

Well, Let’s see what we learn!

Take care, all the best from the International space station.

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