Why scientists are paying volunteers to stay in bed for two months straight

To prepare for long-duration space travel, researchers are keeping volunteers in bed for 60 days. This extreme study simulates the physical toll of microgravity to help scientists protect astronauts and improve medical treatments on Earth.

Volunteers in this study must remain in bed with their feet elevated and one shoulder touching the mattress at all times, even during daily tasks like eating or showering. This setup mimics the physiological effects of microgravity, such as fluid shifts, muscle atrophy, and bone loss, which are also seen in patients with conditions like osteoporosis.

The study tests three distinct approaches to mitigate these effects: a control group with no exercise, a group performing in-bed cycling, and a group using a centrifuge while cycling to simulate artificial gravity. Researchers believe artificial gravity may be a vital tool for maintaining astronaut health during future deep-space missions.

Source: Why these volunteers are in bed for 60 days straight