Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Joshua Kutyrk is set to launch from Cape Canaveral, Fla., on Oct. 1, carrying innovative Canadian technology. Living and working in space poses risks due to the human body’s challenges in low gravity, including the potential for dangerous blood clots. To address this concern, NASA has collaborated with Vancouver-based Response Biomedical to develop technology for monitoring astronaut health in space.
The technology, known as Acute Care Testing in Space (ACTIS), is derived from Response Biomedical’s RAMP technology and can detect various health issues such as blood clots, heart attacks, and infectious diseases like COVID-19. This portable device provides quick and efficient blood tests, delivering results within minutes, which is crucial for astronauts’ safety onboard the International Space Station (ISS).
The adoption of ACTIS by NASA showcases Canada’s expertise in health and life science research, making it a significant milestone for Canadian technology. This development not only benefits space exploration but also has applications on Earth, especially in remote communities where timely and reliable testing is essential for healthcare delivery. The success of this technology on the ISS could pave the way for its use in future space missions to the moon or Mars, aligning with NASA’s plans for human space exploration.
Both CSA director Mathieu Caron and Response Biomedical CEO Taso Tsonis emphasize the importance of this achievement for Canada, highlighting the country’s contribution to space innovation and healthcare technology. This collaboration demonstrates the adaptability and value of Canadian technology in advancing space exploration efforts and addressing healthcare challenges, both in space and on Earth.
