The test flight

Proving X-Ray Imaging in Microgravity

As human spaceflight advances, so does the need for in-flight medical imaging to ensure astronaut health and mission success. Until now, ultrasound has been the only imaging modality used in space. While effective, ultrasound has limitations, including operator dependence and challenges in certain tissue characterizations. Radiography offers a complementary solution, providing higher spatial resolution, faster acquisition, and broader diagnostic capabilities.

The SpaceXray Project is the first proof-of-concept study to demonstrate that digital radiography is feasible in microgravity. By proving that X-ray imaging can function in space, this project lays the foundation for future medical advancements in long-duration missions.

The initial test flight of the SpaceXray Project validated the feasibility of portable X-ray imaging in microgravity, confirming that radiographs could be successfully acquired with diagnostic quality. This groundbreaking research set the stage for the next milestone: the first-ever X-ray in space aboard the Fram2 mission, set to launch on March 31, 2025. As part of this mission, astronauts will perform in-orbit X-ray imaging, advancing both medical diagnostics and non-destructive testing (NDT) for spacecraft maintenance, paving the way for future deep-space exploration.

Sheyna Gifford and Michael Cairnie during the first test flight

The test flight

The first test flight of the SpaceXray Project took place aboard a parabolic flight, simulating both microgravity and lunar gravity. During the mission, researchers captured radiographs of a human subject and a phantom, testing the feasibility of portable digital X-ray imaging in reduced gravity conditions. The results confirmed that image quality, contrast, and spatial resolution remained consistent with Earth-based controls, proving that radiography is a viable medical imaging tool for spaceflight. Results were published in Aerospace Medicine and Human Performance. Click here to read.

Lerner, David & Pohlen, Michael & Wang, Adam & Walter, Jeanne & Cairnie, Michael & Gifford, Sheyna. (2023). X-Ray Imaging in the Simulated Microgravity Environment of Parabolic Flight. Aerospace Medicine and Human Performance. 94. 10.3357/AMHP.6286.2023.

Zero G thorax X-ray

Zero G elbow X-ray

Zero G hand X-ray

How it worked

Microgravity Testing: Radiographs were obtained aboard a parabolic flight, simulating microgravity and lunar gravity.
Portable X-ray Technology: The study used an FDA-approved ultra-portable, wireless, battery-powered digital X-ray system.
Human & Phantom Imaging: X-rays of a human subject and a phantom were taken, covering key anatomical areas—hand, knee, chest, cervical spine, and pelvis.
Ground Comparisons: Identical radiographs were taken on Earth to compare image quality, contrast, and spatial resolution.

Key findings

Comparable Image Quality: Microgravity X-rays showed no significant difference in contrast resolution or spatial resolution compared to Earth-based imaging.
High Diagnostic Adequacy: Spatial resolution reached 3.6 line pairs per mm, with an average contrast-to-noise ratio of 2.44, ensuring clear and useful diagnostic images.
Operator Feasibility: X-ray imaging was successfully performed in various subject and operator positions, demonstrating practical usability in space environments.

Applications beyond medical imaging

In addition to medical imaging, the SpaceXray Project also explored the use of X-rays for non-destructive testing (NDT) in space. Researchers conducted in-flight imaging of hardware components, demonstrating how portable X-ray technology can be used to detect structural issues and troubleshoot potential failures. As space missions become longer and more complex, NDT capabilities will be crucial for ensuring spacecraft integrity and mission safety.

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