Human Performance in a Realistic Instrument-Control Task during Short-Term Microgravity.

ABSTRACT: Previous studies have documented the detrimental effects of microgravity on human sensorimotor skills. While that work dealt with simple, laboratory-type skills, we now evaluate the effects of microgravity on a complex, realistic instrument-control skill. Twelve participants controlled a simulated power plant during the short-term microgravity intervals of parabolic flight as well as during level flight. To this end they watched multiple displays, made strategic decisions and used multiple actuators to maximize their virtual earnings from the power plant. We quantified control efficiency as the participants' net earnings (revenue minus expenses), motor performance as hand kinematics and dynamics, and stress as cortisol level, self-assessed mood and self-assessed workload. We found that com

SUBMITTER: Steinberg F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4470626 | biostudies-literature | 2015

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature