On October 1, Canadian astronaut Joshua Kutyrk is scheduled to launch from Cape Canaveral, Florida, carrying innovative Canadian technology. Living and working in space presents challenges due to the effects of low gravity on the human body, including the risk of developing dangerous blood clots. NASA is focused on ensuring astronaut safety in space.

The formation of blood clots in space has raised concerns, leading NASA to explore ways to assess the risk more effectively. To address this, technology from Vancouver-based Response Biomedical has been commissioned. One key instrument measures D-dimer in blood, a protein fragment indicating the presence of a clot, providing critical information for ground-based flight surgeons.

The technology, known as Acute Care Testing in Space (ACTIS), is based on Response Biomedical’s existing RAMP technology and can detect blood clots, heart attacks, and diseases like COVID-19 and RSV quickly. The portable device enables rapid testing within minutes, enhancing efficiency.

CEO Taso Tsonis highlighted the versatility of the technology, emphasizing its primary application on Earth, particularly in remote communities where rapid and reliable testing is essential. The potential for ACTIS to support future space missions, including to the moon and Mars, showcases the significance of its selection for the International Space Station (ISS), reflecting positively on Canada’s contributions to space exploration.

The deployment of ACTIS on the ISS signifies a milestone for Canada, underscoring the country’s technological prowess and its role in advancing innovation in space exploration.