Research on the application of space weather forecasts to human health

Project Gist

Toward the Application of Space Weather Forecasting to Human Health

Keywords

Space weather forecasting, weather-related diseases, health, preemptive medicine

Background and Purpose

When solar activity increases, astronauts are exposed to radiation in space, satellites are damaged, and power transmission facilities on the ground are also damaged. In order to prevent these problems, research on space weather forecasting is being conducted to predict solar activity and magnetic storms with high accuracy. We aim to apply space weather forecasting to human health, and in this study, we aimed to elucidate the mechanisms of the effects of space environmental factors on living organisms.

Project Achievements

In human studies, we evaluated the relationship between space environmental factors and biological information such as sleep status and heart rate variability. In animal experiments, we exposed mice to electromagnetic fields that reproduced geomagnetic storms and observed their behavior, suggesting an increased level of excitement. We also held seminars in collaboration with an astrophysicist and established new networks with companies and research institutions.

Future Prospects

We would like to utilize the research results and networking obtained through the support of SPIRITS to advance our research into the application of space weather forecasting to human health through a more interdisciplinary approach.

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Principal Investigator