Sensorimotor coordination and the structure of space.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomechanics
• Space Physiology

Background:

• Sensorimotor control relies on both physical and neurologically embedded spatial structures.
• Gravitational cues, particularly the vertical and horizontal, are crucial for sensorimotor organization on Earth.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review mathematical methods for investigating sensorimotor control in freefall.
• To understand physiological adaptation to the absence of gravity in space.

Main Methods:

• Review of studies utilizing mathematical expressions of spatial geometry.
• Application of group theory, dynamics, topology, and conditional dynamics to characterize physiological organization.
• Analysis of movements like sit-to-stand and early locomotion, and platform studies on motion sickness.

Main Results:

• In freefall, the gravitational distinction between vertical and horizontal is absent, challenging Earth-learned physiological organization.
• Mathematical frameworks can characterize changes in physiological organization during adaptation to freefall.
• Conditional dynamic control structures offer a way to parse movement sequences without an input-output model.

Conclusions:

• Mathematical methods are vital for understanding sensorimotor adaptation in astronauts.
• The absence of gravitational cues in space can make Earth-based sensorimotor transition conditions ambiguous.
• Further research using these mathematical tools can illuminate space adaptation and related issues like motion sickness.