Title:
SPA2 SPleen Activity in SPace Anemia
Agreement Number:
25ISS24-4
Agreement Value:
$1,205,636.00
Agreement Date:
Aug 15, 2025 - Mar 31, 2031
Description:
Astronauts return from space with anemia. The mechanisms causing anemia are not known. During long space missions to the Moon or Mars, astronaut must stay safe from severe anemia. The SPleen Activity in SPace Anemia (SPA2) aims to address outstanding questions on the mechanism of space anemia. SPA2 will test two (2) key hypotheses:
1) The spleen is altered by prolonged exposure to space; and
2) Space anemia is caused by extravascular hemolysis in the spleen.
SPA2 will measure changes in spleen size, shape, and structure using magnetic resonance and ultrasonography. Then, SPA2 will measure hemolysis and hemolysis markers using comprehensive clinical and laboratory techniques.
Organization:
Canadian Space Agency
Expected Results:
The Research component of the program provides financial support to organizations to conduct space related research and development in priority areas. It will support targeted knowledge development and innovation to sustain and enhance the Canadian capacity to use space to address national needs and priorities in the future.
Location:
Ottawa, Ontario, CA K1Y 4E9
Reference Number:
003-2025-2026-Q2-00001
Agreement Type:
Contribution
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Recipient Type:
Not-for-profit organization or charity
Recipient's Legal Name:
Ottawa Hospital Research Institute
Program:
Class Grant and Contribution Program to Support Research, Awareness and Learning in Space Science and Technology
Program Purpose:
This program supports knowledge development and innovation in the CSA's priority areas while increasing the awareness and participation of Canadians in space-related disciplines and activities.
The Research Component aims to support the development of science and technology; foster the continual development of a critical mass of researchers and highly qualified people in Canada; and support information gathering and space-related studies and research pertaining to Canadian Space Agency priorities.