First Remote Surgery Simulation in Space Achieved Aboard ISS
Using a robotic arm named spaceMIRA, scientists conduct a groundbreaking surgery simulation in orbit, paving the way for future medical applications on Earth and in space.
- Scientists and engineers have successfully conducted the first remote, zero-gravity surgery simulation aboard the International Space Station using a robotic arm named spaceMIRA.
- The experiment involved using spaceMIRA to cut and remove rubber bands, simulating surgical procedures on human tissue, and was controlled remotely from Nebraska.
- SpaceMIRA, developed by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and Virtual Incision, is designed to assist in surgeries in isolated regions on Earth and potentially in space missions.
- Despite the success, the experiment highlighted challenges such as communication lag, which could affect real-time decision-making in actual surgeries.
- The technology's potential applications include aiding surgeries in remote areas on Earth and supporting future Mars missions.