Bedrest
Head-down tilt (HDT) bedrest is a well-established terrestrial model for some of the physiological changes occurring during spaceflight. Studies performed before, during and after bedrest allow both fundamental research, e.g. on mechanisms of the observed changes, and the evaluation of new countermeasure concepts for long-duration space exploration missions.
ESA has been organising bedrest studies regularly since many years, validating a wide variety of countermeasures such as exercise, artificial gravity, and nutritional supplements.
Current research opportunities
Immersion and Bed Rest Integrated Study (IBRIS) – Announcement of Opportunity (AO-2025-IBRIS)
Deadline: October 12, 2025
Apply now for this Announcement of Opportunity for Immersion and Bed Rest Integrated Study (IBRIS).
Thrombotic Balance and Fluid Shift Study (ThromBoShift) – Announcement of Opportunity (AO-2025-ThromBoShift)
Deadline: October 12, 2025
Apply now for the Announcement of Opportunit for the Thrombotic Balance and Fluid Shift Study (ThromBoShift)
AO-2023-BedrestCoreData
Deadline: September 22, 2023
Through this Announcement of Opportunity, ESA provides scientists access to ESA Bedrest Core Data collected across 7 ESA (co)funded bedrest studies for
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