Developing medical technology on Earth for future space missions

The heart at the centre of this infographic is a strong and simple illustration of health. A stylized electrocardiogram reflects life’s fragility. Like the ripples of a splash, each successive layer around the central heart represents steps toward future human deep-space missions.

• White and adjacent texture composed of hexagons: science and all life-supporting medical technologies.
• Green: remote regions and areas where access to medical services is limited.
• Northern lights: the Far North, where telemedicine is currently being practised.

Star texture: the vastness of the cosmos, which reminds us of the health risks associated with going to space. The Moon and Mars represent the short- and long-term goals of human exploration missions. (Credit: Canadian Space Agency)