Astronauts manage to make a 'medical' discovery in space
On the ISS, as part of the commercial Fram2 mission, diagnostically usable X-ray images of a human have been obtained in orbit for the first time. Three astronauts, after four hours of training, independently used a portable digital X-ray system. Images of the hand, forearm, chest, abdomen, and pelvis were taken on the second and third day of the flight. The mission launched on March 31, 2025, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
On the International Space Station, as part of the commercial Fram2 mission, X-ray images of a human suitable for medical diagnosis have been obtained for the first time in history. Three astronauts underwent only four hours of training and independently used a portable digital X-ray system with a flat-panel detector. The equipment was pre-tested for compatibility with the Dragon spacecraft. The mission launched on March 31, 2025, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket; the crew spent about 3 days and 14 hours in polar orbit. Images of the hand, forearm, chest, abdomen, and pelvis were taken on the second and third day of the flight. Previously, ultrasound remained the primary imaging method in space for over 40 years, insufficient for diagnosing certain injuries. The new method could change the approach to medical support for long-duration missions.