The biological effects of an organism being exposed to Galactic Cosmic Rays (GCR) is an ongoing exploration, as well as the effects on those who are in microgravity. In a search to study the effects of GCR with an organism suspended in microgravity, a Hindlimb Unloaded apparatus was made. GCR simulations will be held in the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory in Brookhaven, NY. This research allows those who are involved in space travel a higher understanding of the radiation exposure, and how to avoid biological problems while in microgravity
Summer research into Hindlimb Unloading was the main study, as well as the techniques that past researchers have used to optimize and improve upon past apparatuses. With background knowledge into Hindlimb Unloading a full, working model of a Hindlimb Unloaded apparatus was made to then be sent to the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory.
To study the effects of GCR upon exposure, three treatments of study will be conducted: 0.75, 1.5 and 2.25 Gy of GCR beam exposure, directed into the left eye. The first treatment will involve all mice being treated with .75 Gy. Two days later, after recovery, two thirds will be treated with 1.5 Gy. Again, after two days, half of the 1.5 Gy mice will be treated with 2.25 Gy. After radiation treatment, half will be placed in cages, while the other half will be placed in Hindlimb Unloaded apparatuses.