Living in space can change where your brain sits in your skull – new research

These changes aren’t permanent – the brain goes gradually back to normal after coming back to Earth. Understanding the physical effects of spaceflight helps plan space missions.

By: Rachael Seidler, University of Florida and Tianyi (Erik) Wang, University of Florida, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: February 11, 2026

Words: 763

Last Updated: 1 month ago

Body Text Preview

By Rachael Seidler, University of Florida and Tianyi (Erik) Wang, University of Florida

Going to space is harsh on the human body, and as a new study from our research team finds, the brain shifts upward and backward and deforms inside the skull after spaceflight.

The extent of these changes was greater for those who spent longer in space. As NASA plans longer space missions, and space travel expands beyond professional astronauts, …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

Email Us