Interview with Dr. Oleg Atkov [interview by Winston Huff]

Last summer International Space University (ISU) was held in Huntsville, Alabama. Leading international space experts came to take part in the activities. Dr. Oleg Atkov, a Russian cardiologist who was also a cosmonaut for eight months in 1984, has extensive experience in cardiovascular medicine and first-hand experience in issues of life support, making him a valuable resource. He also serves on the Journal's Advisory Board. Winston Huff took advantage of the unique opportunity of having Valery Aksamentov, Paul Wieland, and Dr. Atkov together in Huntsville to conduct a general discussion of issues important to those studying life support. Dr. Valery Aksamentov was involved for many years in the development of the Russian life support systems. Dr. Aksamentov now leads the only university program specializing in life support at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. His command of both languages and his technical knowledge were critical to the success of this discussion. Paul Wieland from NASA Marshall Space Flight Center is involved with the development of the life support systems for the space station. He and Dr. Aksamentov are topic coordinators for the Journal. The following interview was conducted at the University of Alabama in Huntsville on August 16, 1993.