Saudi Arabia to launch first space experiment on human eye
Scheduled for the end of this month as part of the FRAM2 mission in polar orbit, the eye microbiome study is in collaboration with SpaceX.
Saudi nonprofit Falak for Space Science and Research is set to launch the Kingdoms first space-based experiment on the human eye in collaboration with SpaceX, as part of the FRAM2 mission later this month, according to a report by Saudi Gazette.
The mission will explore how microgravity affects the eyes microbiome, offering potential breakthroughs for astronaut health and medical advancements on Earth. All preparations, including sample collection and transportation, have been completed.
Dr. Ayoub Al-Subaihi, CEO of Falak and the missions principal investigator, called it a milestone for Saudi Arabias space sector, emphasising the nonprofits role in advancing research and training.
The experiment will analyse how bacteria in the eye respond to low gravity, focusing on genetic and protein changes that could impact infection risks and antibiotic resistance during long space missions.
Dr Selwa Al-Hazzaa, an ophthalmologist involved in the study, highlighted its medical significance: 'This research could transform our understanding of vision in space and lead to new treatments on Earth.'
While past studies have examined gut and oral microbiomes in space, the eye microbiome remains largely unexplored, positioning Saudi Arabia at the forefront of this research field.
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