Innovations in Tools and Methods for Life Sciences Research in Space

Space exploration provides unique opportunities to study biological and physiological processes in a very specific environment. Challenges such as microgravity, confinement, and exposure to cosmic radiation require the development of specialized tools and methodologies. This Research Topic focuses on recent innovations in technologies and methods that advance life sciences research in space.

We welcome contributions exploring innovative instruments, analytical frameworks, and interdisciplinary approaches designed for humans, animals, plants, and cells. These may include wearable biosensors, life support systems, lab-on-chip devices, advanced data analysis methods, and other cutting-edge tools. Additionally, we encourage studies demonstrating the translation of space research findings to terrestrial applications, to highlight the mutual benefits of this work for human health.

Some data should be included in the paper, either as original data, data analyzed using a novel methodology, or as part of a meta-analysis to provide new insights.

Submissions may feature data obtained from spaceflights or ground-based simulations. Pilot studies presenting preliminary data can also be considered.

This collection will be an opportunity to emphasize collaboration among physiologists, engineers, and all researchers concerned by life sciences in space.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: microgravity, space physiology, spaceflights, methodologies, biosensors, Society Affiliation RT

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.