Cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko sets record for 1,000 days in space

MOSCOW: Cosmanaut Oleg Kononenko has made history by spending 1,000 days in space.

According to reports, Kononenko achieved this milestone on June 5, becoming the first person to accomplish such a feat.

Read more: White House directs NASA to create time standard for the moon

Previously, in February, Oleg Kononenko had already set a record by spending 878 days in space, surpassing the previous record held by another cosmonaut.

Kononenko’s achievement was not accomplished in a single mission but over the course of five missions. However, his missions were notable for their longer duration, and he is expected to continue spending significant time in space in the future.

If all goes as planned, Kononenko is set to return to Earth from the International Space Station (ISS) in September 2024, by which time his total time spent in space will reach 1,110 days.

Reflecting on his achievement, Kononenko stated to a Russian news agency, ‘You can achieve something new and important and touch the unknown.’

While he holds the record for the total cumulative days spent in space, he does not hold the record for the longest single mission in space.

Extended periods in space present astronauts with a myriad of challenges. The most significant issue is the weakening of muscles and bones due to the absence of gravity. Without the constant force exerted by gravity, muscles and bones lose mass and strength over time, posing risks to astronauts’ overall health and mobility.

Prolonged exposure to microgravity also impacts the cardiovascular system. Astronauts may experience reduced heart function and difficulty adjusting to Earth’s gravity upon return, known as orthostatic intolerance.

The lack of gravity also alters blood flow distribution, potentially leading to cardiovascular issues and affecting overall physical performance.

Read more: Boeing’s Starliner successfully launches NASA astronauts to ISS

Living in space for extended durations can take a toll on astronauts’ mental well-being, as well. The isolation, confinement, and stress of space travel can lead to psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, and mood swings.