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Maintenance of complex performance during a 135-day spaceflight simulation.
J Sauer1, G R Hockey, D G Wastell
1Department of Psychology, University of Bochum, Germany.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine
|April 2, 1999
Summary
Crew performance in space missions was assessed using a complex simulation. While generally successful, some performance dips occurred, with less information sampling and more control activity over time.
Area of Science:
- Space exploration
- Human factors in aerospace
- Psychology of extreme environments
Background:
- Maintaining crew performance during long space missions is critical due to isolation and confinement.
- Previous studies lacked appropriate performance tests to evaluate this challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate crew performance during a simulated long-duration spaceflight.
- To assess the impact of isolation and confinement on task management and cognitive functions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a PC-based simulation of a spacecraft's life support system for a 135-day MIR mission simulation.
- Employed a complex multiple-task environment to measure primary/secondary task performance, control activity, and information sampling.
- Included subjective state variables in the assessment.
Main Results:
- Indicated successful overall adjustment to isolation and confinement.
- Observed temporary disruptions in some performance indicators.
- Noted decreased information sampling frequency and increased system control activities with mission duration.
Conclusions:
- Computer simulations of complex tasks are effective for evaluating crew performance.
- Addressing continuous learning in repeated testing is necessary for future research.
- The study highlights the feasibility of using simulations to monitor astronaut adaptation.