Duane Graveline

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Duane Edgar Graveline (March 2, 1931 – September 5, 2016) was an American physician, astronaut, and author who became notable for his research into human reactions to spaceflight and his contributions to the field of space medicine. Graveline was selected as a scientist-astronaut by NASA in 1965, a period during which the agency was expanding its efforts to include scientists in space missions to conduct a variety of research activities in a microgravity environment.

Early Life and Education

Duane Graveline was born in Newport, Vermont. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in the sciences, which led him to pursue a career in medicine. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Vermont, where he later received his medical degree. After completing his medical education, Graveline served as a flight surgeon in the United States Air Force, where he gained experience in aerospace medicine, a field that would define much of his career.

NASA Career

In 1965, Graveline was selected by NASA as part of its fourth group of astronauts, a group that was distinct for including scientists alongside military pilots. His selection was part of NASA's broader initiative to incorporate scientific research into its manned space missions. During his time with NASA, Graveline underwent rigorous training and participated in several research projects focused on understanding the effects of spaceflight on the human body. However, his astronaut career was short-lived; he left NASA in 1966 due to personal reasons.

Despite his brief tenure as an astronaut, Graveline continued to contribute to the field of space medicine. He conducted research on the physiological changes experienced by astronauts during spaceflight, including the effects of weightlessness on the human body. His work helped lay the groundwork for future long-duration missions and has been influential in the development of countermeasures to mitigate the adverse effects of space travel on astronauts.

Later Career and Contributions

After leaving NASA, Graveline returned to his medical practice but remained active in the aerospace community. He wrote extensively on space medicine and the challenges of human space exploration. Graveline authored several books and articles on the subject, sharing his insights and experiences with a broader audience.

One of Graveline's significant contributions to medicine was his research into the side effects of statin medications. After experiencing severe amnesia, a condition he attributed to his use of statins, Graveline became an outspoken critic of these drugs. He conducted extensive research into their adverse effects, particularly on cognitive function, and advocated for greater awareness and understanding of these potential risks.

Legacy

Duane Graveline's work in space medicine and his advocacy for patient safety in pharmaceuticals have left a lasting impact on both fields. His research has contributed to a better understanding of the human body's response to spaceflight and the potential risks associated with widely used medications. Graveline's dedication to science and medicine, combined with his unique perspective as a former astronaut, has made him a respected figure in his fields of expertise.

Selected Works

• The Skylab Medical Experiments
• Lost in Space: The Effects of Space Travel on the Human Body
• Statins: Miracle or Mistake?

See Also

• Space medicine
• Astronaut
• NASA
• Statins

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