Moonshot Fitness: Could Jumping on the Moon Save Your Health?

What can astronauts teach us about staying healthy on Earth?

What can astronauts teach us about staying healthy on Earth?

Join Professor Dan Gordon from Anglia Ruskin University for a fascinating journey into the science of exercise, space travel, and human performance. Drawing on his latest research exploring jumping on the Moon as a potential exercise countermeasure, Professor Gordon will reveal how the unique challenges of living in low gravity can help us better understand the importance of movement, muscle strength, and bone health for everyone.

Spaceflight places extraordinary demands on the human body. In the absence of Earth's gravity, astronauts can experience rapid losses in muscle mass, strength, and bone density, leading scientists to search for innovative ways to keep crews healthy on future missions to the Moon and beyond. But the solutions being developed for space may have surprising benefits here on Earth.

Through engaging demonstrations and real-world examples, Professor Gordon will explore how jumping, impact exercise, and carefully designed training programmes could help combat the physical effects of inactivity, ageing, and prolonged sedentary lifestyles. Discover how research inspired by lunar exploration is reshaping our understanding of exercise and human health, and why the lessons learned for astronauts may one day improve the wellbeing of people of all ages.

Combining cutting-edge space science with practical insights into everyday health and fitness, this exciting talk offers a glimpse into the future of exercise science, both on Earth and beyond.

Duration: Approximately 60 minutes, including audience Q&A.

Tickets: Free, booking required.

Location: ARU Chelmsford, Bishop Hall Lane, Chelmsford. CM1 1SQ

Part of the Chelmsford Science Festival 2026.

[DR 17.08.26]