Breakthrough: Scientists defy lunar gravity with unique method

Humans walking on the moon have always fascinated those of us on Earth. However, the moon’s low gravity presents challenges for human physiology, causing muscle atrophy and bone demineralization.

Fortunately, scientists have proposed a potential solution to help humans cope with the low-gravity conditions on the moon. A study published in the Royal Society Open Science introduces the idea of “Horizontal running inside circular walls of Moon settlements” as an innovative way to combat the adverse effects of low gravity.

The concept suggests that lunar residents could run horizontally along the inside of vertical circular walls, effectively parallel to the moon’s surface. This method exploits the moon’s weaker gravity, which would allow for such activities that are impossible on Earth due to our stronger gravitational pull.

Research indicates that this type of exercise could effectively preserve muscle mass, bone density, cardiovascular health, and neural control. The study demonstrated that it only takes 5 to 8 sessions in a simulated Earth environment for participants to adapt to running unassisted in this manner.

The article also discusses a concept known as the Wall of Death (WoD), where humans can safely run horizontally in low-gravity conditions within a cylinder modeled after Earth’s WoD, using speed to create a self-generated, higher artificial gravity.

The researchers are optimistic that this Wall of Death approach could help lunar astronauts manage the long-term effects of lunar gravity. They found that using the WoD to create sufficient artificial gravity could maintain cardiovascular and motor fitness as well as bone health with just a few short running sessions daily. This could be essential not only for activities on the moon but also for preparing for longer space journeys, like to Mars, and for returning to Earth in healthy condition.