Human thermoregulation in microgravity environments: Insights from a computational model

Abstract

A three-dimensional computational model of human thermoregulation has been developed to analyze body temperature distribution in microgravity. By incorporating appropriate modifications, the model effectively captures physiological changes observed in microgravity, including fluid shifts, reduced blood flow, metabolic changes, musculoskeletal adaptations, impaired sweating, and environmental effects. Comparisons with experimental data across various physical and environmental conditions demonstrate that the model effectively predicts the body core and skin temperature distribution. Results indicate that microgravity exposure consistently increases core body temperature (CBT) across all conditions, with fluid shifts being the most significant factor influencing thermal balance. Exposure to hot environments posed the greatest risk, as it caused a more pronounced rise in body temperature compared to cold and normal conditions. Predictions in a microgravity environment are compared with available space station experimental data from astronauts, showing strong agreement and confirming the model’s accuracy.