Submarine medicine as an analog for spaceflight: a review of acute medical care
Abstract
Long-duration spaceflight presents similar medical challenges to submarine deployment, including limited surgical capabilities and the psychological strain from isolation. This review synthesizes submarine medical literature to highlight parallels and divergences with space medicine, focusing on acute conditions. By comparing incidence data on acute medical diagnoses and examining case studies of these conditions, we propose countermeasures such as expanded surgical training and increased mental engagement. These analogies provide a blueprint for autonomous medical care on missions to the Moon and Mars.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Spaceflight effects on biology
Cardiovascular and Diving-Related Complications
Space Exploration and Technology
Publication details
- Journal / source
- npj Microgravity
- Publisher
- Springer Science and Business Media LLC
- Volume
- 12
- Issue
- 1
- Publication date
- 30 January 2026
- Language
- EN