A student from the Cracow University of Technology will work alongside researchers from Canada, the United States, and Austria to develop innovative methods for preventing bone demineralization in astronauts.
Kacper Odziomek, a student of industrial biotechnology, is part of the American “Andromeda” program run by the international non-profit organization Deep Space Initiative (DSI). The mission of DSI is to support the development of space technologies and promote global accessibility to space science. Kacper Odziomek is the only Polish participant in the “Osteonautica” team, which is focused on designing new strategies to counteract bone loss caused by long-term exposure to microgravity.
“The project we’re working on is theoretical and analytical in nature. I collect and analyze existing medical research data, perform calculations or computer simulations, and propose conclusions and solutions in the field of bioregenerative therapies, including pharmacotherapy,” explained Kacper Odziomek in a university statement.
Prolonged space missions lead to a monthly decrease in bone density of 1–1.5%. Astronauts face an increased risk of osteoporosis, fractures, and kidney stones. These conditions result primarily from the absence of mechanical loading, reduced muscle activity, and the loss of hydrostatic pressure gradients.
The next generation of astronaut health protection strategies will integrate disciplines such as biology, genetics, biotechnology, and bioinformatics.Current prevention methods rely mainly on daily physical exercise, proper nutrition, and pharmacotherapy. The aim of the project is to develop advanced therapeutic strategies based on the latest achievements in biotechnology and genetics.
Deep Space Initiative was founded in 2021 in the United States by Sarah Sabry, the first astronaut of African origin. The organization aims to make space science more accessible, operating under the belief that space belongs to all of humanity—not just a select few. DSI brings together global experts across disciplines, from engineers to legal professionals, with advisors including NASA specialists. All research participation in DSI programs is voluntary.
Kacper Odziomek at the Columbus training module of the European Astronaut Centre in Cologne / Photo: private archive
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