Aspiring Astronaut Addresses Oversight She Says Is an ‘Engineering Failure’ by Studying Menstruation in Space (Exclusive)

**Prominent American Scientist to Study Menstruation in Space for Virgin Galactic Mission**

In an unprecedented venture into space exploration, Manju Bangalore and Priya Abiram are set to lead a pioneering mission in 2027 that will focus on understanding menstruation in the unique environment of microgravity. As part of Virgin Galactic’s forthcoming project, this mission aims to explore the dynamics of menstrual fluid and assess the performance of menstrual products like pads and tampons during space travel.

Bangalore’s journey into the realms of science and space began at a young age. At just four years old, a visit to the Air and Space Museum in McMinnville, Oregon, ignited her passion for space. This early experience was enriched when she learned about Kalpana Chawla, the first Indian woman to venture into space. Although she did not recognise the term “representation” back then, the sight of someone who looked like her achieving such monumental feats inspired her, laying the groundwork for her ambitions.

With an educational background in physics and mathematics from the University of Oregon, Bangalore later interned at the White House under President Obama, working on science policy. Her career further unfolded at NASA, where she honed her skills at the Marshall Space Flight Center and the Johnson Space Center, engaging in projects that included propulsion systems and cockpit displays for the Orion spacecraft. These experiences allowed her to meet some of the heroes she admired and connect with the new wave of astronauts, including Victor Glover.

In 2015, Bangalore established Operation Period, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to advancing menstrual health and breaking the stigma surrounding periods. The initiative was conceived during a personal struggle with severe menstrual pain, prompting her to recognize the broader implications of menstruation. She cited a heart-wrenching case of a 14-year-old girl in Kenya who tragically ended her life due to the embarrassment and shame associated with her first period. This motivated her to advocate for what she refers to as “menstrual freedom,” aiming to ensure that no one is hindered by their biological functions.

Looking to the stars, the upcoming Virgin Galactic mission marks a significant milestone in Bangalore’s dedication to menstrual health research. She previously conducted a menstrual fluid dynamics experiment during a parabolic flight, which solidified her belief that menstruation studies could extend beyond Earth. With this mission, she aims to gather not just qualitative data but also comprehensive results that could influence future advancements in menstrual products and their design for space.

Despite existing data on various bodily responses to microgravity, the specific effects on menstruation remain largely unexplored. Bangalore notes that many menstruating astronauts opt for hormonal contraceptives to manage their periods while in space, thus avoiding the logistics of menstruation during missions. The findings from the planned experiment could be pivotal in addressing an overlooked aspect of human spaceflight, one that affects nearly half the global population.

Bangalore expressed her frustration over the lack of engineering considerations for menstruation in spacecraft design. “Designing for biological functions, such as menstruation, is essential if we are serious about inclusivity in space,” she remarked. She believes that as space exploration evolves, it is crucial to cater to the diverse needs of all potential astronauts, particularly women.

Reflecting on her journey and the challenges faced, Bangalore acknowledges that the intersection of grassroots movements and commercial space exploration was virtually non-existent a decade ago. While pathways for such collaborations have improved, she emphasises that systemic hurdles still remain.

Bangalore has also highlighted the importance of spinoff technologies derived from space exploration. Innovations developed for NASA have frequently translated into practical applications on Earth, benefiting the wider community. Examples range from advancements in medical procedures to improved technology in everyday devices.

As she prepares for this mission, Bangalore remains optimistic about the potential positive impact, not only on menstrual health but also on the broader context of human life. She believes that through space exploration, the world can discover solutions that advance societal well-being and create opportunities for a diverse and inclusive future in space.

In conclusion, the significance of Bangalore’s upcoming research extends beyond scientific exploration; it seeks to challenge long-standing stigmas and promote a more inclusive approach to space travel. As interest in outer space continues to captivate people worldwide, this mission holds the promise of uniting communities through shared knowledge and the potential for groundbreaking discoveries.