
Orbiting X-Rays Break Ground in Space Medicine
SpaceX’s Fram2 mission conducted the first in-orbit medical X-ray scans with a portable X-ray device, capturing diagnostic-quality images of the hand, forearm, abdomen, pelvis, and chest that were reviewed by three radiologists. The inflight results show radiography can supplement ultrasound for astronaut health, diagnose injuries, and even assess equipment or space-suit integrity, marking a path toward more capable space diagnostics. Future work will aim to miniaturize and harden X-ray systems for vacuum and deep-space use, with real-time imaging guidance for astronauts on Moon missions.













