Communication between space crews and ground personnel: a survey of astronauts and cosmonauts

A total of 54 astronauts and cosmonauts returned questionnaires which addressed several aspects of communication between space crews and ground personnel. Two factors were rated as significantly helping this communication: Shared Experience and Excitement of Space Flight. Two additional factors were judged to significantly hinder space-ground communication: Spacecraft Ambient Noise and Space Sickness. Respondents also significantly endorsed the value of contact with loved ones on Earth as having a positive influence on mission performance, particularly cosmonauts and long-duration space travelers. The need for a private space-ground transmission link was mentioned by several respondents. There was no consensus as to whether or not negative personal information should be withheld until the space crew returned to Earth, although some respondents indicated that this might be justified during short-duration as opposed to long-duration missions. These findings have important scientific and operational implications for future manned space missions.