Living and working in space: An overview of physiological adaptation, performance, and health risks

Abstract

Over the course of 60 years, our understanding of how humans fit into an “engineered” environment has expanded significantly. Successful residence beyond the confines of the Earth’s biosphere, involves many critical technologies that ensure the protection of health and safety of crew members. From Mercury to the Orion, NASA has developed and continues to experiment with different human exploration space craft and habitat designs. On occasion, the combined space flight environment(s) and enabling exploration technology can induce functional and physiological changes in humans. Living and working in a confined space, high energy radiation, during extended duration missions, and performance and protective measures against deconditioning are discussed in this chapter. Exposure to space flight results in adaptive and pathophysiological (by Earth standards) responses in health and well-being of space crews and upon return to Earth. Human health is of concern when landing and exploring other planets and their satellites. Space ergonomics is in its infancy. Communications and robotics are major assistive capabilities for the insertion of “astronaut-centered” systems, increasing crew autonomy, and safe operations in future Solar System missions. Countermeasures to protect astronaut health and performance, and relevant policies and standards are discussed in this chapter.