Dituri, 55, is on track to complete a 100-day mission called Project Neptune 100, studying the medical, physiological and psychological effects of compression on the human body, while using the unique, record-breaking mission to raise awareness for conservation and marine research. The record-breaking mission moves into uncharted territory for the study, hoping to apply the research to space travel.
“It takes 200 days to travel to Mars,” Dituri said according to WUSF. “Our astronauts will have to travel in an environment similar to the one I’m in now – the confined area will limit their options for food, how far they can see and how they can exercise. They will experience muscle loss, bone loss and vision problems. This research could help us better prepare our astronauts to ensure they arrive healthy and strong enough to explore the planet.”
Before moving undersea, Dituri underwent a series of medical, physiological and psychological tests to measure his performance, and he will be tested again when he resurfaces on June 9.
Dituri’s interest in the mission stems from his own thesis on hyperbaric research, and original reason for earning his doctorate degree from USF. His hypothesis: If hyperbaric pressure can be used to increase cerebral blood flow, then it can be used to treat traumatic brain injuries and a broad spectrum of diseases.
The associate biochemical engineering professor continues to teach to over 2,500 students from his undersea home. His Maymester course will expand on hyperbaric research, and pull on his experiences since beginning the mission.
“I’m teaching a course about being under pressure while I am under pressure and what happens inside the body, the biological and chemical processes that change,” Dituri said.
Follow us: Google News | NewsBreak | Reddit | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
