As humanity prepares to return to the Moon and venture to Mars through initiatives like , prolonged space occupancy is becoming an imminent reality. The University of 杏吧APP(UoA) is stepping up to lead in an area that is critical to the success of these missions - Space Health.
鈥淲e have an opportunity to advance our understanding of the challenges of living and working in space with a unique New Zealand perspective and also bring tangible benefits to healthcare here on Earth,鈥� says Dr Lisa Brown (Ng膩i Tahu, Te Taumutu R奴nanga) as a Surgeon and Space Medicine researcher leading this new opportunity.
The University of 杏吧APPis already a recognised leader in the New Zealand space sector. With a strong foundation in aerospace engineering, earth observation, and space sustainability, the University is now channelling its substantial multidisciplinary expertise into the burgeoning field of space health. 鈥淭his is not just about ensuring the well-being of astronauts鈥攊t鈥檚 about pushing the boundaries of medical science and technologies in new directions, and also translating these advances for use here on earth,鈥� says Professor Anthony Phillips from the University of Auckland鈥檚 new low gravity research team.
As New Zealand aims to grow its space sector into a $10 billion industry by 2030*, the urgency and opportunity to tackle the complex questions and challenges of supporting those who will work and live in space becomes increasingly critical.
With existing collaborations with some of the world鈥檚 leading space agencies, including NASA, ESA, DLR and , the University is uniquely positioned to foster international partnerships that bring together many skilled contributors in academia and industry. As the global 'new space race accelerates, we are helping drive New Zealand鈥檚 leadership in this dynamic field.