Cells function differently under low gravity conditions. Rather than send lab samples to space, researchers are developing Earth-bound tools to more easily study microgravity’s effects on biology.

As space travel gains traction and astronauts spend increasing amounts of time in space, studying its effects on health has become increasingly critical.

Is space travel truly safe? Far from it – research has shown that the effects of space radiation and microgravity on the human body are both detrimental and long-lasting. Creating space conditions on Earth, however, could potentially help researchers treat cancer.