NASA Study Reveals Insights from Twin Astronauts’ Yearlong Space Mission

HOUSTON, Texas — A groundbreaking study by NASA involving identical twin astronauts Scott and Mark Kelly has shed light on the human body’s adaptability to the harsh environment of space. Scott Kelly spent 340 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS) between March 2015 and March 2016, while his twin brother Mark remained on Earth, providing a unique opportunity for comparative health research.

The primary aim of the mission was to understand how extended exposure to microgravity affects human biology. More than 400 experiments were conducted during Scott’s time in space, focusing on potential health issues that could impact astronauts participating in future missions to Mars and beyond.

“The mission’s goal was to understand how the human body reacts and adapts to the harsh environment of space,” NASA officials stated. “These findings are vital for reducing risks to future astronauts.”

Upon Scott’s return to Earth, extensive testing began. Both brothers underwent a comprehensive series of assessments before, during, and after the mission, including blood, urine, saliva tests, and cognitive evaluations.

Steven Platts, deputy chief scientist with NASA’s Human Research Program, expressed surprise at the results, noting that Scott experienced no significant long-term health problems attributable to the lengthy flight. “The results we’ve seen… show the resilience of the human body,” Platts said. Interestingly, Scott’s telomeres, which typically shorten with age, were found to be lengthened, a finding that puzzled scientists.

While some changes in Scott’s body returned to baseline shortly after landing, several remained as markers of the expected effects of long-term space travel. “This will guide future biomedical space research and allow us to have a safer journey to and from Mars,” Platts added.

Both Scott and Mark Kelly are celebrated figures in the realm of space exploration, contributing crucial knowledge that may enable future manned missions to distant planets.