Participants sought for studies Do you want to walk on the Moon?

Join our study at Karolinska Institutet and help us investigate how the connection between the brain and the muscles changes after 2.5 weeks of simulated microgravity. As part of the study, you will also experience a parabolic flight, an opportunity normally reserved for astronaut training, to directly simulate reduced gravity.

Genre image of an astronaut in space.
Astronaut in space. Photo: Photo by form PxHere

How does the study work?

  • During the study you will wear a special shoe and use crutches for approximately 2,5 weeks, unloading one leg to simulate microgravity. Scroll for instruction video.
     
  • Before and after the 2-week unloading period, you will undergo muscle tests and examinations at our laboratory and in France.
     
  • You will also take part in a parabolic flight in Bordeaux, France. Scroll for instruction video.

Unloading model used in the study

Instruction video: Parabolic flight

Who can participate?

In order to participate you must be:

  • Completely healthy
  • Between 18-60 years old
  • Not be taking any regular medication or have any medical implants
  • Willing to unload one leg for approximately 2.5 weeks
  • Have a Swedish personnummer
  • Be able to visit our laboratory at the Karolinska University Hospital in Huddinge
  • Be able to travel to France during September 13-20, 2026

Reimbursement

All travel and accommodation is covered by the research team. In addition to the unique experience of a parabolic flight, you will be compensated with 3000 SEK (before taxes) upon completion of the study.

If you have questions and/or want to participate in the study, please contact:

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Mirko Mandić

Postdoctoral Researcher

Principal Investigator

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Rodrigo Fernandez Gonzalo

Principal Researcher

Processing of personal data

Your personal data is processed for the purposes of this study in accordance with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation). The legal entity responsible for processing of your personal data is Karolinska Institutet. The Data Protection Officer can be reached at dataskyddsombud@ki.se. The data will be analyzed on a group level, handled confidentially and it will be stored in a secure database at Karolinska Institutet. You can terminate your participation in the study at any time.