One Giant Leap for Mankind… Astronaut Training at Life Science Centre

Life Science Centre in Newcastle invites you to follow in the footsteps of icons like Buzz Aldrin by taking part in NASA training exercises and genuine human spaceflight research! This special event comes as part of Life’s popular Meet the Scientist programme, where working scientists visit Life Science Centre to meet the public and to demonstrate their work. Although visitors will remain firmly on planet Earth, they can get their own taste of astronaut life with ‘Train like an Astronaut’ - the latest addition to the Meet the Scientist programme. This event is designed to explain what happens to the body when it goes into space, as well as demonstrate exercises that real NASA astronauts use to stay fit and healthy both on and off the planet. There are 4 different exercises to try, all from NASA’s Mission X train like an astronaut programme. Adults can also join a real research study with a European Space Agency exercise device currently being tested for potential use in post spaceflight spinal rehabilitation. ‘Train like an Astronaut’ has been brought to Life by Andrew Winnard, a trained physiotherapist with a passion for human spaceflight. He is currently undertaking PhD research at Northumbria University in post spaceflight rehabilitation for the spine and pelvic area, exploring the medical issues associated with human spaceflight. “In Space, the lack of gravity causes deconditioning of astronauts’ bodies”, explains Andrew, “muscles become weaker, bones thin, and the spine stretches. This can lead to back pain during and after spaceflight and even  injury to spinal discs once the astronauts return to Earth if proper rehabilitation is not performed.’ Every weekday until 13 August, visitors to Life have the chance to try out ‘Train like an Astronaut’ (suitable for ages 7+). This activity is included in the admission price to Life Science Centre.