A training device for astronauts has been inserted into an Airbus accelerator.
Developed by the British startup Physical Mind London, Device mitigates the effects of weightlessness, which can be brutal.
After six months in space, astronauts can lose up to 20 percent of their bone mass. Their muscles can also shrink dramatically. On short-haul flights, muscle loss can be as high as 20 percent. If no countermeasures are taken, this figure can be as high as 50 percent.
Physical Mind London aims to provide these countermeasures. The company's flagship product is the HIFIm (High Frequency Impulses for Microgravity Machine).
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HIFIm offers a workout based on a special exercise: jumping.
Studies show that jumping is an efficient way to maintain muscles and bones during Space travelStudies by the European Space Agency (ESA) have shown that just four to six minutes of jumping a day can mitigate the damage caused by microgravity.
HIFIm simulates movement on a bench-like device. The system does not require any electricity.
Astronauts first lie down on the machine. Then they press their feet against a base to “jump” horizontally. High-strength springs provide control and resistance during the exercise.
According to Physical Mind London, the system can reduce the time astronauts need to train by over 80%.
Launch assistance for astronauts
The founder of Physical Mind London, John E. Kennett, is a former aerospace engineer. He has also worked as a physiotherapist.
Kennett used both areas to develop HIFIm. He describes the device as “the next generation of multi-purpose countermeasures for long-term human space exploration.”
Kennett has already tested the technology in microgravity. Budding astronauts have trained on HIFIm during parabolic flights that simulate weightlessness by floating up and down at stomach-churning 45-degree angles.
HIFIm is designed for compact conditions. Due to its small size and low weight, the machine fits into spacecraft without creating a burdensome payload.
The system also isolates any vibrations – because nobody wants their spaceship to shake.
These qualities have earned us the support of ESA, the UK Space Agency and now Airbus.
The aerospace giant has selected Physical Mind London for the first Airbus Space Accelerator.
During the 14-week program, the startup will receive support in both technical and business development. At the end, HIFIm could be one step closer to the cosmos.
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