Microgravity and Ground Simulations of Prototype Health Maintenance System Equipment

This paper presents a summary of recent evaluations of prototype Health Maintenance System (HMS) equipment and medical procedures under development for use aboard the International Space Station. Evaluations involved a series of preparatory ground simulations which provided baseline data while allowing opportunities to evaluate medical operational procedures. Ground simulations were followed by a series of parabolic flights offering a microgravity environment. Data gathered in parabolic flight addressed specific questions as to the efficacy of procedures and the HMS equipment performance.