Astronauts' Guide to Eye Care in Space | Aqualens

Chandrayaan's recent moon landing has us dreaming of a future where living on the moon is a reality. But before we can all pack our bags for lunar tourism, there's a lot to learn about how to live and thrive in space. One important consideration is eye health.

What Happens To Astronauts' Eyes In Space?

When astronauts go to space, they experience a number of changes to their bodies, including their eyes. One of the most common changes is a shift in fluids, which can cause pressure to build up in the head and eyes. This can lead to swelling of the optic nerve, changes in the eye's shape and structure, and vision problems such as blurred vision and nearsightedness.

The lack of gravity in space also has an impact on astronauts' eyesight. In microgravity, fluids tend to pool in the head, which can increase the pressure on the optic nerve. It can cause a number of changes to the human body, including the eyes. This can lead to vision problems such as blurred vision, blind spots, and even permanent vision loss. One common change is called spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome (SANS). SANS can cause vision problems such as blurred vision, changes in the shape of the eye, and swelling of the optic nerve.

Another challenge that astronauts face is the increased risk of eye damage from solar radiation and cosmic radiation. Solar radiation is ultraviolet and infrared light, while cosmic radiation is made up of high-energy particles. Both types of radiation can damage the eyes and retina. Space is full of harmful ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiation, which can damage the cornea, lens, and retina.

How Astronauts Adapt To Extreme Visual Challenges

Astronauts often have to perform tasks that require extreme visual acuity, such as docking with the International Space Station or conducting spacewalks. To adapt to these challenges, astronauts train extensively on Earth and in space. They also use a variety of tools and techniques to enhance their vision, such as microscopes and telescopes. They learn how to perform tasks in microgravity.

Astronauts also use a variety of techniques to cope with vision changes caused by SANS. 

Some common techniques include:

• Using optical coherence tomography (OCT) to monitor eye changes
• Performing eye exercises to strengthen the eye muscles
• Wearing corrective lenses

How Astronauts Safeguard Their Eyes From Solar Radiation

Astronauts wear specially designed sunglasses and goggles to protect their eyes from solar radiation. These eyewear have dark lenses and a thin gold coating to block out harmful UV and IR radiation. They also avoid direct exposure to sunlight as much as possible.

How They Adapt To Darkness In The Cosmos

Astronauts also need to be able to adapt to the extreme darkness of space. When they step outside of the International Space Station (ISS), they are exposed to a level of darkness that is much darker than anything we experience on Earth.

To prepare for this, astronauts spend time in a darkroom before spacewalks. They also wear special goggles that block out all light.

Do Astronauts Experience Visual Hallucinations In Space?

A small number of astronauts have reported experiencing visual hallucinations in space. These hallucinations can be anything from simple flashes of light to complex scenes. The exact cause of these hallucinations is unknown, but they may be related to the changes in fluid pressure and blood flow that occur in space. These hallucinations can be caused by a number of factors, including stress, fatigue, and sensory deprivation.

Astronauts' Guide To Eye Exercises In Space

Astronauts perform a variety of eye exercises to strengthen the eye muscles and improve vision. Some common exercises include:

• Eye rolls: Roll your eyes in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction for 10 repetitions each.
• Eye focusing: Focus your eyes on a distant object for 10 seconds, then on a near object for 10 seconds. Repeat 10 times.
• Blinking exercises: Blink rapidly for 10 seconds, then rest for 10 seconds. Repeat 10 times.

How Astronauts Keep Their Eyes Comfortable

Astronauts use a variety of techniques to keep their eyes comfortable in space, including:

• Using artificial tears: Artificial tears can help to lubricate the eyes and prevent dryness.
• Taking breaks from screens: Astronauts take breaks from screens to reduce eye strain.
• Getting enough sleep: Sleep is essential for eye health.

The Role Of Tear Fluid In Astronauts' Eye Health

Tear fluid plays an important role in keeping the eyes healthy. It lubricates the eyes, removes dust and debris, and helps to protect the eyes from infection. In space, the tear fluid can evaporate more quickly due to the dry air. This can lead to eye irritation and discomfort. Tear fluid production can also be reduced due to microgravity. This can lead to dryness and irritation of the eyes.

What Makes Astronauts' Glasses So Special?

Astronaut sunglasses and goggles are specially designed to protect the eyes from the harsh environment of space. They block harmful UV and infrared radiation, as well as dust and debris. Astronaut sunglasses and goggles are also made to be lightweight and comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

One of the most important features of astronaut sunglasses and goggles is the lenses. The lenses are typically made of a durable material such as polycarbonate or Trivex. They are also coated with a special UV-protective coating.

The frames of astronaut sunglasses and goggles are typically made of a lightweight material such as titanium or aluminum. They are also designed to fit snugly on the face to prevent them from slipping off.

In addition to sunglasses and goggles, astronauts also wear helmets during spacewalks. The visors of these helmets are also made to protect the eyes from the harsh environment of space. Astronaut sunglasses and goggles are specially designed to protect the eyes from solar radiation. They have dark lenses and a thin gold coating to block out harmful UV and IR radiation.

Predicting The Future.

In the future, it is possible that astronauts will wear contact lenses instead of sunglasses and goggles. Contact lenses would be more comfortable and would provide better protection for the eyes.

However, there are a number of challenges that need to be overcome before contact lenses can be used safely in space. One challenge is that microgravity can cause contact lenses to dry out and irritate the eyes. Another challenge is that contact lenses can be difficult to insert and remove in microgravity.’

Scientists are working on developing new contact lens materials and designs that can overcome these challenges. If they are successful, contact lenses could revolutionize eye protection for astronauts. And it doesn’t seem that far off!

If you are looking for the best contact lenses online, look no further than Aqualens!

Aqualens offers a wide variety of contact lenses to choose from, including daily disposables, weekly disposables, and monthly disposables. Aqualens contact lenses are made with high-quality materials and 3rd Gen Silicone Hydrogel Technology, designed to provide comfort and clear vision. Aqualens contact lenses are also affordable and easy to order online.