Presentation
Selective Sensorimotor Impairments With Mental Fatigue Associated With G-Transitions During and After Spaceflight
DescriptionDecrements in sensorimotor performance due to vestibular challenges associated with spaceflight are well characterized, and these impairments pose a significant risk to astronaut safety and mission success. However, the impact of fatigue on this impairment is unknown. We hypothesized that the interaction of fatigue and vestibular impairment will lead to greater than additive detriments to static and dynamic balance. Thirteen subjects (9m/4f) completed a series of sensorimotor tests before and after a fatigue-induction task. The sensorimotor tests consisted of static and dynamic balance tests conducted both with and without Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation (GVS) as an analog for post-flight vestibular challenges. Contrary to the hypothesis, the combination of fatigue and stimulation did not lead to increased impairment in sensorimotor task performance. Subjects displayed improved performance following the fatigue-induction task, but only during eyes-open conditions, suggesting that vision plays a critical role in the adaptation to vestibular impairment under fatigue.
Event Type
Lecture
TimeWednesday, September 11th11:35am - 11:55am MST
LocationFLW Salon A
Aerospace Systems