NASA Is Testing A Cool Bioprinting Tool For First Aid In Space

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NASA is testing a handheld bioprinting device aboard the International Space Station that will use an astronaut’s own cells suspended in a fluid to create a band-aid patch in case of an injury during space missions. One of the biggest challenges that come with space exploration, especially long-term missions, is the lack of advanced health care facilities to take care of serious illnesses. There are strict limitations on the kind, and amount, of medical gear that can be carried on a mission.

And then, there are the challenges that come with being suspended in microgravity. Take, for example, CPR, which can suddenly be no longer performed using one’s body weight if another astronaut needs it. In addition, during long-duration flights, such as the planned Artemis mission to put a man on Mars, the risks of severe medical and surgical events go up significantly. Plus, there is always a real scenario where the loss of a crew member’s life cannot be ruled out.

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In a bid to overcome some of those health-related challenges, NASA has sent a tool called Bioprint FirstAid Handheld Bioprinter — or Bioprint FirstAid, in short — to the International Space Station. The bioprinting device is shaped like a gun and will use a pre-formulated bio-ink containing a person’s own cells to create a healing tissue patch in case of injuries. Slated to undergo testing until September of 2022, the prototype being tested for operational stability on the ISS currently has a “Research Only” status and doesn’t come fitted with the bio-ink vials containing human cells.“The aim of the portable bioprinter is to cover a wound area on the skin by applying a tissue-forming bio-ink