Astronauts produced the first X-rays in orbit during SpaceX’s Fram2 mission, with a peer-reviewed study finding that the images achieved diagnostic quality comparable to preflight radiographs.
The findings appeared in the July 2026 issue of the journal “Radiology.” Lead author Dr Sheyna E. Gifford and colleagues evaluated a portable commercial digital radiography system during the 3.5-day polar-orbit mission.
Three crew members joined the study, although operational constraints allowed only two to undergo in-flight imaging. The crew produced seven radiographs covering the hand, forearm, chest, abdomen and pelvis without live assistance from Earth.
Independent radiologists found no significant difference between in-flight and preflight scans in overall image quality, spatial resolution or contrast resolution. However, positioning for chest, abdominal and pelvic images was poorer in microgravity.
The nonmedical crew received four hours of training before the mission. Participants later rated the equipment and operating procedures as easy to use, while identifying alignment and securing the hardware as the main challenges.
Researchers also used the system to inspect equipment, revealing internal components at the submillimetre scale. They said the method could support medical diagnosis and nondestructive checks of spacecraft hardware during longer missions.
The X-ray generator remained functional after landing despite minor superficial damage. Fram2 launched on March 31, 2025, and returned to Earth on April 4 after completing the first crewed polar-orbit mission.
