A Bolivian all-female research team is using ESA’s Large Diameter Centrifuge to investigate the impact of high gravity levels on astronauts’ health. The team, sponsored by the United Nations and ESA, aims to determine whether the hypergravity experienced during rocket launches contributes to anemia in space.

Located at ESA’s ESTEC technical center in the Netherlands, the Large Diameter Centrifuge (LDC) is an 8 m-diameter four-arm centrifuge that can simulate up to 20 times Earth gravity for extended periods. The team gained access to the LDC through HyperGES, part of the Access to Space for All initiative sponsored by ESA and UNOOSA.

The researchers from Universidad Católica Boliviana ‘San Pablo’ in La Paz have spent two weeks studying the effects of hypergravity on red blood cells. One of the health issues astronauts face in space is anemia, characterized by dizziness and weakness. Recent research indicates that anemia is linked to the destruction of red blood cells, a process known as ‘hemolysis’. This finding motivated the team’s investigation into whether exposure to hypergravity causes cellular membranes to become fragile, leading to hemolysis.

To test their hypothesis, the team conducted ‘osmotic fragility testing’ on red blood cell samples exposed to varying levels of hypergravity (7.5 and 15 Earth gravities) as well as normal gravity as a control. They prepared different hypotonic solutions and subjected the samples to hypergravity rotations lasting 10, 30, and 60 minutes. The team also stored the samples at different temperatures to assess the effects.

According to team leader Dr. Georgina Chávez, the distribution of body fluid changes in weightlessness, which may promote the destruction of red blood cells. The team believes that understanding the effects of the initial phase of hypergravity exposure on hemolysis may provide insights into the development of anemia in space. While most studies have focused on microgravity, the team suggests that astronauts first experience a brief but intense period of hypergravity before reaching microgravity.

Inspired by previous Bolivian participation in UNOOSA programs, such as the Drop Tower Experiment Series in Germany, the team saw an opportunity to investigate hypergravity effects with the LDC. The team consists of five aspiring biochemistry and bioprocess engineers who see this research as an exciting opportunity to apply their knowledge. The team’s involvement in scientific research and initiatives promoting female Latin American students in STEM subjects has gained attention and interest.

While the team did not intentionally form an all-female group, they acknowledge that their organization and dedication have contributed to their success. The research project has received support from the Matilda organization, which encourages female students in Latin America to pursue STEM careers. Additionally, the team’s achievements have been featured on Pica, a popular TV show for Bolivian teenagers.

The Bolivian research team aims to shed light on the connection between hypergravity exposure and anemia in space. By studying the effects of high gravity levels on red blood cells, they hope to contribute to a better understanding of astronauts’ health and improve their well-being during space missions. The research conducted on ESA’s Large Diameter Centrifuge marks an important milestone in uncovering the mysteries of space-related health issues.