Polyakov's long space stay showed minimal health effects

Valeri Polyakov, a Russian cosmonaut, holds the record for the longest single stay in space, spending 437 days aboard the Mir space station in 1994. His record remains unbroken, even as NASA astronauts prepare to return from a nine-month mission. After his return in 1995, Polyakov's health was closely studied. Researchers found no significant decline in his cognitive abilities, although he did grow taller due to the lack of gravity. He maintained his fitness by exercising daily. Polyakov's experience demonstrated that humans can endure long durations in space without severe health impacts. His findings have influenced future space exploration efforts. He passed away in 2022 at the age of 80.