In a breakthrough experiment, monitoring an athlete at top speed.

30 000km/h

Karen Sharwood and Lara Keytel of UCT’s Research Unit for Exercise Science will monitor Mark Shuttleworth’s heart rate and blood pressure as he exercises on the International Space Station. While, of course, he hurtles through space at the staggering speed of 30 000km/h.

The aim of this experiment is to establish heart-rate monitoring as an accurate measurement of total daily energy use. This would enable South African scientists to evaluate athletes from a distance, thereby developing the scope for distance coaching and evaluation, with further possible applications to the South African public. Cutting-edge biotechnology won't just save lives in Africa, it could put us ahead in the commercial race too. Which is why HBD Venture Capital invests in the best South African biotech ideas. Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained.