Astronauts Age Faster on Long Space Missions
A University of Calgary study found that six-month space missions age the body, though much of the effect reverses within a year on Earth.
Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Space
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A 10-year University of Calgary study found that astronauts on long missions age faster than people on Earth. Researchers reported that one year of rehab, training and living on Earth reversed about 50 per cent of the effects.
Why it matters
The findings point to physical costs of extended spaceflight that matter as longer missions and private space stations expand. Understanding how quickly the body recovers informs planning for crew health on future missions.
The study followed 18 astronauts who flew to the International Space Station between 2016 and 2026, with follow-up testing six months after return. Whether the remaining half of the effects resolves over longer periods is not addressed in the findings.
The players
University of Calgary
A public research university in Calgary, Alberta, which conducted the Wayfinding study.
Canadian Space Agency
The federal agency responsible for Canada's space program, which funded the Wayfinding project.
The details
The 10-year Wayfinding study, funded by the Canadian Space Agency, examined how microgravity, radiation, stress and isolation affect spatial orientation and navigation skills. Participants completed assessments before flight and cognitive and neurological testing after returning.
Timeline
2016 to 2026: Astronauts in the study traveled to the International Space Station.
Six months after return: Follow-up testing checked whether effects lingered.
One year after return: Rehab, training and Earth living reversed about 50 per cent of the effects.
Big Picture
The Wayfinding study, funded by the Canadian Space Agency, adds a measured biological-aging dimension to Canada's spaceflight research. Its findings bear on how long-duration missions will be planned as private space stations open new research opportunities.
Findings like these will shape the health screening and recovery programs used for crews on future missions. Private space stations may give researchers more access to test how spaceflight affects participants over time.
The takeaway
Recovery after spaceflight appears substantial but incomplete, so crew health planning should account for effects that persist beyond the first year on Earth. Readers following space health research can track future follow-up findings from long-duration missions.
Further reading
For more on crewed missions and health research, see Space coverage on Wisevoter.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CTVNews.
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