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The Twin Bikes System for artificial gravity in space.


 Exposure to microgravity (microgravity < or = 10(-4) g), beside affecting the neurovestibular and respiratory systems, greatly alters the dynamics of the circulation and leads to bone demineralization and muscle atrophy (Grigoriev and Egorov, 1991; Nicogossian, 1989a). When taken together, circulatory deconditioning and muscle atrophy lead to a reduced exercise capacity and tolerance. It is generally believed that the above modifications are completely reversible upon reentry to normal 1 g conditions, even if it is still a matter of debate whether this is really the case after very long space flights. In any case, appropriate countermeasures appear necessary for long term space flights (Nicogossian, 1989b). These countermeasures are generally based on: i) exercise training programmes, ii) appropriate suits maintaining the lower part of the body at a pressure below cabin level, thus partially reversing the headward fluid shift and iii) elastic cords pulling the subject's body towards the floor of the cabin to simulate Earth gravity. In addition, iv) artificial gravity obtained by rotation of the spacecraft, or parts thereof, was proposed since the beginning of the space era to prevent cardiovascular deconditioning and bone and muscle loss. This paper describes the Twin Bikes System and studies testing its usefulness as a tool for maintaining astronauts' physical fitness during microgravity.
