Vestibular tests in the selection of cosmonauts

Vestibulo-vegetative disorders in cosmonauts and astronauts occurring during space flight compel otolaryngologists to search for vestibular tests enabling a precise evaluation of the activity of the vestibular apparatus and showing disposition to motion sickness. Otoneurological investigation of Polish candidates for cosmonaut status consisted of the following vestibular tests: caloric, rotatory, optokinetic, swinging torsion, statokinesimetric and vestibulo-vegetative. The value of various vestibular tests for aviation and space medicine is presented in this paper, taking into account the results of investigations of the equilibrium system with the group of pilots selected for space flight as well as extensive experience with candidates for the air service and also trained pilots and patients. The relatively frequent lack of correlation between the results of the applied tests, which renders difficult the proper evaluation of the equilibrium system, is emphasized in the paper. Finally, the results of investigations of acute habituation of the vestibular apparatus are discussed.