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ISS Tests Find Diabetes Monitors Work in Orbit, Opening Path for Diabetic Astronauts

Preliminary Ax-4 data suggest off-the-shelf diabetes tools can support microgravity care pending formal validation.

Overview

  • Axiom Space and UAE-based Burjeel Holdings unveiled early Suite Ride results on September 26 in New York after trials during the Axiom Mission-4 stay on the International Space Station.
  • Continuous glucose monitors worn by crew delivered readings comparable to Earth-based measurements and sent real-time data from orbit to the ground, according to the research team.
  • Researchers cross-checked CGM data against finger-prick tests and laboratory analysis and reported the devices remained safe and reliable throughout the mission.
  • Insulin pens were flown to the station and showed consistent dose delivery in orbit, with returned samples now undergoing post-flight testing to confirm formulation integrity and potency.
  • The partners said the work establishes several firsts on the ISS and announced an ambition to eventually fly an astronaut with diabetes, while noting that broader validation and peer review are still in progress and that the methods could inform remote care on Earth.