Scientists Pursue Human Hibernation for Mars Trips as 20% Metabolic Drop Emerges in Early Tests
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jul 14
Scientists Pursue Human Hibernation for Mars Trips as 20% Metabolic Drop Emerges in Early Tests
2 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jul 14
Summary
Researchers backed by ESA and NASA are developing synthetic torpor for humans, aiming to cut the radiation, muscle loss and psychological strain of months-long space travel.
Animal studies suggest hibernation protects DNA, reduces oxygen use and limits bone and muscle damage, while also slashing food and water needs on missions such as a Mars round trip.
Since 2023, several teams have used ultrasound to trigger torpor in animals, and Matteo Cerri’s ESA-funded group hopes to start tests in healthy human volunteers soon.
A University of Pittsburgh study last year used dexmedetomidine in healthy people for five days, producing a 20% metabolic drop and 30% lower calorie use—well short of natural hibernators but potentially useful.
Medical use is likely to come first, from emergency care to organ preservation and Parkinson’s trials, though experts say safe recovery from torpor remains the biggest hurdle and space use may still be decades away.