Uplift Aerospace (Park City, UT) and Utah State University are collaborating on suborbital research to reduce space motion sickness by training the human vestibular system for microgravity environments.
Park City, Utah – April 25, 2025
In a move that blends real-world space access with academic muscle, Uplift Aerospace (Park City, UT) has partnered with Utah State University to study how to prep the human body for the disorienting effects of spaceflight—starting with the inner ear.
The two signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to conduct research on "vestibular habituation"—the process of training the body’s balance system to better handle microgravity. If successful, the research could reduce space motion sickness and improve astronaut performance in space tourism and commercial missions.
Unlike most vestibular studies that rely on ground-based analogs, this one will go to space. Uplift Aerospace researchers Dr. Ruben F. Salinas and Aaron Newman will conduct experiments on a suborbital flight, collecting real-time physiological data in microgravity. Utah State University (USU) will lead the experimental design and analysis.
“This is about hacking human adaptability,” said Dr. Salinas. “We’re testing whether simple pre-flight interventions can reduce motion sickness and speed up acclimation to microgravity. It’s a big step toward making spaceflight more accessible—and safer—for more people.”
Aaron Newman, co-researcher and serial entrepreneur, brings a unique background to the project. A member of the Explorers Club and founder of ventures focused on extreme environments, Newman sees this research as part of a broader push to expand human capability.
“Space isn’t just for astronauts anymore,” said Newman. “We’re building the tools that make space travel survivable, and even comfortable, for the rest of us.”
As part of the agreement, Uplift Aerospace gets first rights to license any intellectual property developed through the partnership—a sign the company sees a commercial path for the tech, possibly in astronaut training or wellness solutions adapted for Earth.
“This is applied research with immediate implications,” said Josh Hanes, CEO of Uplift Aerospace. “We’re not just gathering data—we’re creating new pathways for space health and human performance.”
What’s next for Uplift?
Based in Park City, Utah, Uplift Aerospace extends beyond traditional aerospace objectives, aiming to make space more accessible to all. The company offers astronaut training that includes not just the basic requirements, but unique experiences designed to engage the public. This includes donning space suits, spacecraft egress training, and zero-gravity simulations. The goal is to foster a community-driven space program that encourages participation and dreams of space exploration among the public. Uplift Aerospace's innovative approach to space exploration and education exemplifies its mission to make space more accessible while inspiring the next generation of STEM professionals.
Through programs like the Starborn Academy, the company is not only training future astronauts, but also fostering a community-driven space movement that emphasizes inclusivity and hands-on learning.
By partnering with industry leaders and educational institutions, such as Utah State University, Uplift Aerospace is helping to bridge the gap between classroom education and real-world applications, offering students unique opportunities to develop critical skills and connect with cutting-edge industries.
More at: https://www.upliftaerospace.com
