Virgin Galactic to Study Menstruation in Microgravity in 2027

What happened?

Virgin Galactic, in collaboration with the Redshift laboratory and the non-profit organization Operation Period, has announced the launch of the Operation Period-01 mission for 2027. This is the first suborbital flight specifically designed to study how microgravity affects the menstrual cycle. Two engineers and astronauts in training, Manju Bangalore and Priya Abiram, will be responsible for conducting experiments aboard Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo. The flight, lasting approximately 90 minutes, will include several minutes of actual microgravity, enough time to collect initial data on menstrual flow, clotting, and hormonal changes. The scientists will carry non-invasive measurement devices and take samples to be analyzed after landing. The project has full backing from Virgin Galactic, which donated the seats on the spacecraft, and from the Redshift laboratory, which specializes in microgravity research.

Why is it important?

Since Valentina Tereshkova became the first woman to travel to space in 1963, about 100 women have crossed Earth's atmosphere. However, there has never been systematic research on how microgravity influences menstruation. This scientific gap contrasts with numerous studies on bone density, muscle atrophy, sleep, or cardiovascular health in astronauts. The lack of data poses a risk to astronauts' health and limits planning for long-duration missions, such as those planned for Mars. For example, NASA has studied the effects of radiation, bone loss, and vision changes but has not prioritized menstrual health. This omission has historical roots: during the early decades of the space race, female astronauts were rare, and studies focused on men. Even today, many space medical protocols assume a male body as the standard. Operation Period-01 aims to close this knowledge gap and ensure that future long-duration missions, such as a trip to Mars, consider women's specific needs. Additionally, the study could have applications on Earth, helping to understand menstrual disorders like endometriosis or premenstrual syndrome.

Consequences and projections

The results of Operation Period-01 could change medical protocols for female astronauts, including the management of menstruation in space. Currently, astronauts can opt to suppress menstruation through continuous hormonal contraceptives, but this is not suitable for everyone and can have side effects. The research could lead to new recommendations on the use of menstrual hygiene products in microgravity, as well as the creation of specific drugs to regulate the cycle in space. On a social level, it highlights a need historically ignored in space exploration, promoting gender equity in science. The project also sets a precedent for future research on reproductive health in low-gravity environments, such as fertility or pregnancy. Companies like SpaceX and agencies like ESA have already shown interest in the results. If the study is successful, it could open the door to missions dedicated exclusively to female health. Furthermore, the collaboration between a private company (Virgin Galactic) and a non-profit organization (Operation Period) demonstrates a new research model that combines commercial resources with scientific and social goals.

What readers should know

• The flight will be suborbital, with a few minutes of microgravity, enough to collect initial data. However, researchers plan to request longer orbital flights in the future if results are promising.
• The scientists will measure menstrual flow, clotting, and possible hormonal changes. They will use sensors and special collectors designed to work in microgravity.
• The project is backed by Virgin Galactic, which donated the seats on the spacecraft, and the Redshift laboratory, which provides technical advice.
• Results are expected to be published in peer-reviewed journals and help design safer missions for women. Additionally, the data will be open access for other researchers to use.
• The mission is scheduled for 2027, subject to completion of technical tests and availability of the SpaceShipTwo spacecraft.