Historic Experiment in Space!

For the first time ever, scientists sent menstrual cups into space to explore their potential in extreme conditions, marking a groundbreaking step in providing sustainable menstrual health solutions for female astronauts. The AstroCup mission aims to ensure women have practical options during lengthy journeys to the Moon and Mars.

A Long-standing Challenge in Space Travel

Since pioneering astronaut Sally Ride flew with NASA in 1983, managing menstruation in space has remained a significant hurdle. While many female astronauts opt for hormonal contraceptives to bypass menstruation altogether, this method isn't universally suitable and raises health concerns, particularly during extended missions.

The Need for Sustainable Solutions

With exciting plans for lunar bases and Mars missions potentially lasting years, researchers recognized the urgent requirement for sustainable alternatives. Imagine an astronaut participating in multiple Artemis missions facing over a decade of suppressed menstruation! The need for a reliable solution is clear as we look toward prolonged stays in deep space.

Launching Into the Unknown

Under the guidance of Ligia F. Coelho from Cornell University, the AstroCup team launched four menstrual cups into the great beyond aboard the Baltasar rocket during a European competition in October 2022. In a thrilling nine-minute flight that soared over 3 kilometers high, two cups ventured into space while two remained on Earth as controls.

Testing the Resilience of Menstrual Cups

Experiencing forces 16 times greater than Earth's gravity, the cups underwent rigorous testing for structural integrity and leak-proof performance using water and glycerol. Post-flight inspections revealed the cups were in pristine condition, showing no signs of wear and tear, and impressively withstood extreme conditions without any leakage.

A Step Toward Space Autonomy

The onboard sensors recorded a range of challenging conditions, from temperature shifts to low humidity levels. The results, shared on the arXiv preprint server, indicate that menstrual cups could effectively manage menstruation in space. Unlike disposable products that create unnecessary waste, these reusable cups would significantly reduce environmental impact—a crucial aspect of space missions.

What's Next for AstroCup?

While these results are promising, it's important to note that the experiment was conducted under Earth's gravity. The Moon's and Mars' gravitational differences could affect how menstrual fluid behaves when cups are utilized. Future studies will need to explore the cups' performance across multiple menstrual cycles, including essential cleaning and storage protocols in space.

The Future is Here!

The AstroCup mission not only explores practical benefits but also champions astronaut autonomy in health care choices. As we embark on deeper space explorations, initiatives like this pave the way for women's health needs in the final frontier.