Simulation of Local Blood Flow in Human Brain Under Altered Gravity

Blood circulation as well as body fluids distribution undergoes significant adaptation during and after space flight. Much study on physiological changes under weightlessness has been performed since the early days of the space program. In particular, cardiovascular research in conjunction with the space shuttle program has included diverse physiological functions affected by the nervous system such as heart rate, blood pressure, hormone release, and respiration. The altered cardiac output due to adaptation during flight and deconditioning after the flight will impact blood circulation in the human body. Especially, this altered blood supply in the brain and consequent oxygen supply to certain parts of the brain will make non-negligible impact on long-duration flight. To assess the impact of changing gravitational forces on human space flight, it will be essential to quantify the flow characteristics in the brain under varying gravity conditions. Analysis of blood circulation in brain as well as other parts of human body requires the capability to analyze flow in large arteries and capillaries.