| Suboptimal workplace conditions in space could jeopardize human safety and mission success whereas favorable conditions are likely to enhance worker performance. The NSBRI Human Factors and Performance Team is developing ways to optimize work environment factors such as air quality, lighting, computer and machinery displays, air and food quality, scheduling of work and of sleep, and human-robot interactions.
Astronauts often suffer from sleep deprivation due to the changes in the day/night cycles in space as well as the noise, and the lack of gravity and privacy. In order to minimize the chance of adverse repercussions of astronauts performing their duties while tired, NSBRI researchers are developing and testing special lighting enriched in the blue and green wavelength spectra to help the crew remain alert and improve circadian and sleep regulation. Ultimately, such lighting may be installed in astronaut crew quarters, NASA ground-based Mission Control work areas, and in space vehicles. In addition, NSBRI scientists are developing computer programs that analyze each individual astronaut's activity and sleep rhythms and designing schedules that predict times of good performance to see if they align with times of complex and demanding tasks and if countermeasures are required.
Space missions involve the operation of spacecrafts and complex robotic arms. The crew must be able to accurately read and interpret intricate computer screen displays and to effectively interact with robotic controls under difficult conditions, including extreme vibration and poor visibility. NSBRI researchers are investigating the effects of these conditions in order to design optimal displays and controls, assist in astronaut training protocols, and predict likely operator mistakes.
Even so-called harmless particles such as cracker crumbs can become problematic in a closed environment lacking gravity. One particularly toxic space environmental hazard is lunar dust, which is a collection of very-fine and abrasive particles that cling to everything and enter space vehicles via clothing and equipment. NSBRI investigators are studying the deposition and airway clearance of simulated lunar dust particles so that mitigation strategies that preserve lung function can be developed. |
