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Neurophysiological effects of partial gravity on bimanual control: a parabolic flight study
Deanna M Kennedy1, Osmar P Neto2,3, Madison Weinrich1
1Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
NPJ Microgravity
|April 16, 2026
Summary
Altered gravity impairs bimanual coordination, especially in microgravity (0g). Partial gravity (0.25-0.75g) better preserves performance, offering insights for astronaut training and countermeasures.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Human Physiology
- Space Medicine
Background:
- Bimanual coordination is critical for spaceflight tasks.
- The impact of varying gravitational levels on bimanual coordination is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of microgravity and partial gravity on isometric bimanual coordination.
- To explore the behavioral and neural changes during altered gravity conditions.
Main Methods:
- Participants performed rhythmic force tasks during parabolic flights simulating 0g and 0.25-0.75g.
- Collected force and electromyography (EMG) data.
- Utilized EMG-EMG cross-wavelet analysis for neural coordination assessment.
Main Results:
- Behavioral impairments in force production and smoothness were most significant in microgravity (0g).
- Performance in partial gravity (0.25-0.75g) approached 1g levels.
- Exploratory analysis revealed reduced beta-band interlimb neural coordination in 0g.
Conclusions:
- Absence of gravity presents the greatest challenge to coordinated motor control.
- Partial gravity may help maintain bimanual coordination performance.
- Findings inform astronaut training and the development of countermeasures for space missions.
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