Curriculum

The future of human spaceflight is rapidly evolving, thanks to the expanding commercial space sector. This growth is not only introducing new mission types but will also expand the scope of medical care provided in space.

Consequently, the skills and knowledge required for aerospace medicine are evolving, as medical roles become more diverse. As spaceflight continues to advance, it is likely that passengers with previously disqualifying medical conditions will be accommodated thereby necessitating a new approach to preventing adverse events and making informed medical decisions in space.

Our distinctive curriculum is designed to prepare physician-engineers to meet these future challenges. Human spaceflight introduces unique medical challenges that demand a broader skill set compared to traditional terrestrial medicine.

Our program equips fellows with specialized training in aerospace engineering, interventional radiology, hypo-/hyperbarics, dentistry, and regional anesthesia, among other areas. Fellows will work closely with engineers to ensure medical optimization and integration within various engineering projects, while also maintaining their clinical skills in emergency medicine by working in high-volume, high-acuity emergency departments.

Additionally, our fellows contribute to research and health studies that support spaceflight participants in Low Earth Orbit and eventually on the moon and Mars. They will play a crucial role in real-world missions, developing a deep familiarity with spacecraft, crews, and mission teams. Opportunities for fellows may include training crews in medical procedures, developing new safety protocols, operating in mission control, and participating in launch and recovery efforts.

Our program is committed to flexibility, regularly updating training requirements and opportunities to ensure that fellows gain the most from their experiences in the rapidly evolving field of human spaceflight and its medical demands.