University of Waterloo

Published purpose

The recent observation of a blood clot forming in the neck vein of an astronaut on the International Space Station could have been related to low or stagnant blood flow in the vein as astronauts no longer have a head-to-heart gravitational gradient during spaceflight. The current study will use novel high-frame rate ultrasound investigations of blood flow in the neck vein during parabolic flights that replicate the microgravity conditions of spaceflight. From the ultrasound signals, the research team will use vector flow imaging to assess across the full width of the vessel the potential for areas of stagnant flow that could elevate the risk for blood clot formation. These results could lead to an inflight diagnostic screening test and a tool for evaluation of potential countermeasures to prevent this serious health risk for astronauts.