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Study Reveals Microgravity's Lasting Impact on Astronauts' Brains

1/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Microgravity exposure reshapes astronauts' brains and affects balance after spaceflight.
Rachael Seidler of the University of Florida led a study analyzing brain measurements from 26 astronauts.
The study found shifts up to three millimeters in balance- and sensorimotor-related regions.
These changes persist for months and impair post-mission stability.
The findings appeared in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, underscoring the need for improved recovery strategies.

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Story summary

Microgravity exposure reshapes astronauts' brains and affects balance after spaceflight.
Rachael Seidler of the University of Florida led a study analyzing brain measurements from 26 astronauts.
The study found shifts up to three millimeters in balance- and sensorimotor-related regions.
These changes persist for months and impair post-mission stability.
The findings appeared in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, underscoring the need for improved recovery strategies.