Axiom, DAC to develop human performance monitoring technology for space

US-based commercial space station developer Axiom Space (Axiom) and health monitoring device manufacturer Danish Aerospace Company (DAC) will collaborate to develop and test next-generation human performance monitoring and exercise technology intended for space applications.

The firms will test DAC-made systems on upcoming Axiom human spaceflights to low-Earth orbit (LEO). This trial will start with new wearables to measure vitals of astronauts on Axiom’s first mission to the International Space Station.

DAC CEO Thomas AE Andersen said: “Our collaboration with Axiom represents an important step in DAC’s efforts to contribute to commercial space systems being developed for LEO.

“We have been maturing our human performance monitoring and exercise technology through prototypes for the past several years. Now, we look forward to the opportunity Axiom provides for the continuity of our capability demonstration.”

DAC has been creating medical monitoring and exercise systems for more than 25 years. It is now developing wireless physiological monitors and compact exercise equipment that can support humans not just in space but also in other harsh environments.

Besides monitoring of crew health, DAC and Axiom will explore DAC’s next-generation commercial space ergometer FERGO and its multifunction exercise system on the future Axiom Station.

DAC has earlier developed ergometers that are used in the Space Shuttle and ISS programmes.

Axiom Space CEO Michael T Suffredini said: “The work with DAC supports the development of technologies required for healthy, long-duration space habitation.

“Consistent with Axiom’s mission, these technologies provide for an expanded human presence in space and improvements to life on Earth.”