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Development of space motion sickness in a ground-based human centrifuge
1Crew Systems Directorate, Armstrong Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433-7008, USA.
Acta Astronautica
|May 1, 1996
Summary
Adapting to 2 Gz acceleration in a centrifuge can cause space motion sickness (SMS)-like symptoms upon return to normal gravity. This study suggests sustained G-force exposure may simulate spaceflight effects on the human vestibular system.
Area of Science:
- Vestibular System Research
- Human Physiology in Extreme Environments
- Space Motion Sickness (SMS) Etiology
Background:
- The vestibular system, particularly otolith organs, adapts to altered gravity.
- This adaptation can lead to space motion sickness-like symptoms upon re-exposure to Earth's gravity (1 Gz).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if sustained exposure to increased G-force (2 Gz) can induce space motion sickness-like symptoms.
- To evaluate the potential of ground-based human centrifuges for simulating spaceflight vestibular challenges.
Main Methods:
- Nine subjects were exposed to 90 minutes of sustained 2 Gz acceleration using a human centrifuge.
- Subjects were subsequently evaluated for space motion sickness (SMS) symptoms and postural stability at 1 Gz post-exposure.
- Postural stability was assessed using the Equitest System in the most affected individuals.
Main Results:
- Five subjects experienced slight SMS symptoms, three had moderate symptoms, and one reported frank sickness.
- Postural instabilities were observed in two subjects with the most severe symptoms.
- Sustained 2 Gz exposure successfully induced SMS-like symptoms and postural deficits.
Conclusions:
- Long-duration exposure to 2 Gz acceleration in a human centrifuge is a viable method for inducing space motion sickness-like symptoms.
- This ground-based model shows promise for studying vestibular adaptation and countermeasures for spaceflight.
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