Computer simulation of cardiovascular changes during extended duration space flights

Abstract

The application of mathematical modeling and computer simulation to the study of spaceflight cardiovascular changes is examined using a multicompartment representation model of the entire human cardiovascular system including its control elements. The model simulates the beat-to-beat dynamic responses of the cardiovascular system to orthostatic stresses. Simulation results pertaining to long-term space flight, the combined effect of +G(z) and blood volume loss, and the effect of anti-G suit inflation are discussed, including past results on the original version of the model which has been used in a number of analysis applications at NASA. New results pertain to analysis of cardiovascular changes in extended duration space flights and demonstrate the use of this model in evaluation of physiological factors that contribute to orthostatic intolerance following an exposure to weightlessness, in particular, blood volume loss and changes in the sensitivity of baroreceptors.