The human in the system - a legacy of flight

Human spaceflight has been a key element of exploration for more than 70 years. Human presence in space and exploration of low Earth orbit and planetary sojourns are possible because of complex systems. As humans are involved in all aspects of this endeavor it is important to have constructive dialogue across diverse disciplines. This Editorial highlights the interaction between different disciplines in support of the complex systems for human spaceflight. It highlights the establishment of the University of Cincinnati’s Armstrong Institute for Space, Technology and Research (ASTRO) and the efforts by faculty and students in fundamental and translational research. Space exploration has many facets and includes a wide variety of complex systems to support launch systems, human habitats, and opportunities in low Earth orbit and human health.