A software-based solution for research in space ethology

In this paper we present details of new applications of a software-based system for human ethological investigations in space missions and analogous settings. The studies address astronauts' motor adaptation to microgravity during short-term stays and the crews' social behavior in isolation and confinement over extended time periods. The current working hypotheses are based on differences observed in multicultural and mixed-gender crews for future interplanetary missions.

In our approach, we use The Observer XT computer application to facilitate the observation, description, and quantification of behavioral data collected in parabolic flights, isolation and confinement campaigns, and polar missions. We implemented video recording protocols based on a goal-directed orientation task and daily life activities.

The software integrates several steps: project management, definition of a coding scheme, annotation of videos linked to external data, data selection, and analysis. Numerical outcomes are presented. We show differences in motor skills between male (resting: 22%) and female (flexing/stretching: 22%) subjects in parabolic flights. We did not observe significant differences in social behavior by nationality during the isolation and confinement campaign. Notable findings include cultural grouping (20% of place preferences) and gender-based individuality (15%) during wintering at the polar base.

The Observer XT may be a valuable tool to synchronize behavioral events with video files and bring forth visual representations and statistical analysis. It will be used for the next interdisciplinary project on the Mars 500 experiment to study physical ability, psychological capabilities, and behavioral performance over a 520-d stay in a simulated ground-based environment.