NASA Tests Mini X-Ray Technology to Expand Medical Capabilities in Space

Cleveland, Ohio; December 15th, 2025.

Officials with THE NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION announced that engineers and medical researchers at NASA GLENN RESEARCH CENTER are testing compact X-ray technology designed to provide astronauts with advanced diagnostic imaging during long-duration space missions, a development aimed at improving in-flight medical care where traditional hospital equipment is unavailable.

According to NASA GLENN RESEARCH CENTER, the miniature X-ray systems under evaluation are significantly smaller and lighter than conventional imaging equipment, allowing them to be used aboard spacecraft and future lunar or deep-space habitats. NASA stated that the technology is intended to help astronauts diagnose injuries or medical conditions autonomously, without relying on real-time assistance from Earth.

Researchers with NASA GLENN RESEARCH CENTER said the testing focuses on system durability, image quality, power consumption, and radiation safety, all of which are critical factors for use in the space environment. NASA noted that extended missions, including future exploration beyond low Earth orbit, require onboard medical tools that can function reliably in confined and resource-limited conditions.

In technical documentation released by THE NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION, the agency explained that miniature X-ray systems could support a range of medical assessments, including bone injuries, joint issues, and internal conditions, giving crews greater medical independence during missions where evacuation or immediate return to Earth is not possible.

NASA officials also stated that while the technology is being developed for spaceflight, the research has potential applications on Earth, particularly in remote locations, emergency response scenarios, and areas with limited access to full-scale medical imaging facilities. The agency emphasized that technology developed for space exploration has historically contributed to advances in civilian medicine and healthcare delivery.

Testing of the mini X-ray systems is ongoing, and NASA GLENN RESEARCH CENTER said additional evaluations will determine how the technology could be integrated into future crewed missions as part of broader efforts to enhance astronaut health and mission resilience.

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Sources

Primary First-Hand Sources
• THE NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION, official announcement on miniature X-ray technology testing
• NASA GLENN RESEARCH CENTER, technical documentation and research summaries on portable X-ray systems for space health care