Study Finds Cognitive Changes in Astronauts During Space Missions Are Temporary

Research on astronauts aboard the ISS shows slowed mental processing during missions, but no long-term cognitive impairment.

A NASA study involving 25 astronauts revealed temporary cognitive changes, such as slower processing speed and reduced attention, during six-month stays on the International Space Station (ISS).
These changes were primarily observed early in the mission and gradually returned to baseline after astronauts returned to Earth, though some recovery took longer.
Key cognitive areas affected included processing speed, working memory, and attention, similar to stress-related changes seen on Earth.
The study found no evidence of permanent cognitive impairment or neurodegenerative decline, highlighting the resilience of the human brain in extreme environments.
The findings are expected to inform future missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond, helping to anticipate and mitigate potential cognitive challenges in prolonged space exploration.