NASA Prepares for the Potential of Death in Space: New Technologies for Astronauts Beyond Earth and the ISS

The American space agency is developing technologies to address potential deaths that may occur during extravehicular activities, on the Moon, and in deep space, as shared by American pathologist and neurologist Peter Cummings in an article for Scientific American. Up to now, no astronaut has died from natural causes outside Earth.

Upcoming missions are increasingly long-term and target destinations beyond low Earth orbit. The average age of NASA astronauts is around 50 years, and within this age group, natural death becomes statistically more likely even for those maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

The space agency has already extended its selection cycle to increase the number of astronauts and to attract younger crew members who can handle future long-duration missions.

In the event of a death aboard the International Space Station (ISS), the body would be placed in the Human Remains Containment Unit (HRCU). This system is a sealed bag designed to safely store remains, featuring capabilities for cooling, odor elimination, and moisture absorption.

Once sealed, the bag would be stored in the cargo hold until it can be returned to Earth. The HRCU is a modified version of a military pathology body bag intended for use in hazardous conditions.

Tests conducted at Sam Houston State University have demonstrated the durability of this system, with some HRCU versions lasting over 40 days. NASA also evaluated the bag’s performance after a drop of more than 5 meters to simulate a rough landing.

In addition, the agency has prepared for the possibility of death beyond the ISS. If a crew member dies in space, their body would be retrieved and wrapped in a specially designed fabric. The aim is not only to prevent contamination but also to uphold dignity, explains Cummings.

Should burial occur on the Moon or in deep space, the body would be cataloged and monitored. Training for space mission crews now includes protocols for conducting mourning ceremonies beyond Earth.