"Frank Rubio's Record-Breaking 371-Day Space Mission Shatters Previous Longevity Records"
NASA astronaut Frank Rubio set an American record for the longest continuous space flight, spending 371 days in orbit. However, this record falls short compared to the longest space flight record held by Valeri Polyakov, who spent 437 days aboard the Mir space station. Rubio's extended stay was due to being trapped on the International Space Station after their ship was damaged by space debris. The effects of long-term space travel, including microgravity, isolation, and radiation, pose significant challenges to human health. Despite these challenges, efforts are underway to extend the duration and distance of space missions, including plans for a return trip to the Moon and eventual missions to Mars.