Space model biology

Model biology in space life science plays a vital role in studying the life and health of astronauts. It provides a representative framework to understand how the space environment affects astronauts and aids in developing protective measures. By using model organisms, scientists can simulate and analyze various conditions encountered in space, such as microgravity and radiation. Over the years, organisms like Caenorhabditis elegans, fruit flies, silkworms, mice, and Arabidopsis have been employed in both space missions and ground-based simulations. These studies reveal the physiological and biological changes that occur in space, offering insights into how these conditions impact human health. This chapter delves into the different types of model organisms commonly used in space biology, detailing their unique characteristics and contributions to the field.