What does "space adaptation syndrome" refer to?

Space adaptation syndrome specifically refers to the physiological and sensory adjustments that astronauts experience when they transition from Earth's gravity to the microgravity environment of space. This condition often manifests as symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and disorientation, especially during the initial days after entering the microgravity environment. The body has to adapt to the lack of gravitational forces, which disrupts the vestibular system responsible for balance and spatial orientation.

The adaptation process can take some time, and many astronauts report feeling ill as their bodies adjust to the new conditions. It highlights the importance of understanding human physiology in varying gravitational environments, especially for long-duration space missions, where adaptation can significantly impact an astronaut's well-being and performance.