Presentation
PS9 - Hyper-Enabled Humans: Human performance monitoring technology for prolonged space missions
DescriptionIntroduction
As humanity steers its trajectory towards deep space exploration and extended periods of time on the moon, this unique and challenging environment will majorly amplify both physiological and psychological demands on astronauts. This vast and inhospitable frontier necessitates not only advanced propulsion and sustenance technologies but also cutting-edge human performance monitoring systems. Modern space suits are transitioning from merely providing life-sustaining environments to integrating real-time health monitors, offering instant feedback on astronaut health metrics and even countermeasures during health emergencies. Biometric wearables continuously track various physiological parameters, facilitating early health concern detection and insight into the human body's adaptation to space. Essential, too, is the evolution of communication systems capable of overcoming the immense distances and latency of space, maintaining a psychological lifeline, and enabling data relay to mission control. Additionally, tools promoting human-human monitoring become invaluable, fostering real-time crew support by identifying signs of stress or cognitive decline, a vital component to assess for the sake of team performance and maintaining crew dynamics.
This review will delve into the current human performance monitoring technology previously described, as well as highlight the intricate web of monitoring that is further enhanced by next-generation life support systems, equipped with predictive analytics to pre-emptively address potential malfunctions. Robotics, often designed to venture where humans cannot, now bear sensors to monitor their human counterparts, ensuring optimal functioning. Artificial Intelligence emerges as a linchpin, adept at swiftly processing vast data arrays, predicting health challenges, and dynamically adjusting mission parameters for safety. Lastly, the inclusion of autonomous systems, pivotal during communication lapses or crew incapacitation, ensures mission integrity. In this review, we rigorously examine the latest in these monitoring technologies, evaluating their capabilities and challenges, and discuss strategies aimed at enhancing human performance during deep space voyages. The synergy of these innovations holds the promise of safer, more successful explorations into the unknown expanses of our universe.
Method
Literature Review
The primary aim of this review is to highlight the physiological and psychological challenges of prolonged exposure to the space environment and in isolation. Further, we will provide solutions based on current literature that suggests specific forms of technology used to monitor human performance and mitigate negative aspects of prolonged spaceflight. Additionally, this review will recommend potential needs for further research and technological innovations to enhance human performance and mitigate the major risks of deep space exploration. Peer-reviewed and empirical research was utilized to provide insight on this domain, major physiological and psychological decrements of prolonged exposure to the space environment, the current forms of technology used to monitor performance, as well as continuing and recommended innovations to aid in solving these vital problems. Here, we present a literature review that includes both peer-reviewed literature and empirical articles.
Our research team used the search terms “space”, “human performance in space”, “human performance monitoring”, “health tracking”, “health monitoring”, “performance technology”, “human performance technology”, “astronaut teams”, “astronaut team technology”, “biometric”, “biometric tracking”, “biometric spacesuit”, “communication in space”, “human-human monitoring”, “life-support systems”, “AI systems in space”, and “robotics in space” in the following databases: PsychInfo, Google Scholar, PubMed and the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Hunt Library. Articles were collected from April, 2002 through January, 2023 for a wide enough time range to gain ample information on the various aspects being considered in the current review.
Main Findings
The cutting-edge developments in deep space exploration technology aren't just theoretical but are grounded in tangible, real-world applications. For instance, the ‘Bio-Monitor’ system, which was tested aboard the International Space Station (ISS), is a prime example of advanced biometric wearables. This smart shirt, designed by the Canadian Space Agency, is capable of measuring and recording vital signs, offering continuous health monitoring in the challenging microgravity environment. It tracks parameters such as blood pressure, skin temperature, and oxygen levels, providing a comprehensive health status of the astronaut. Further, SpaceX's Starman suit, worn by astronauts on the Crew Dragon missions, is a testament to the progression of space suit technology. While details of its integrated biometric systems remain proprietary, it's designed to work seamlessly with the Crew Dragon's seat and spacecraft to ensure astronaut safety by monitoring vital signs and ambient conditions. Additionally, NASA's xEMU (Exploration Extravehicular Mobility Unit), set to be used in the upcoming Artemis missions to the Moon, showcases innovations in suit flexibility while potentially integrating advanced health monitoring systems to safeguard astronauts during extravehicular activities.
As we look to the future, it's evident that integration and enhancement remain pivotal. Companies like Lockheed Martin are exploring the fusion of AI with human biometrics for real-time health analytics. Moreover, the Orion spacecraft's Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) represents a step forward in autonomous life support, capable of adapting to changing conditions and potential hazards. However, while these advancements in technology are extraordinary, the frontier of deep space is vast and mysterious, necessitating continued research. Emphasizing collaboration between entities like NASA, ESA (European Space Agency), and private entities like SpaceX and Blue Origin will be key. By pooling resources, knowledge, and innovative spirit, we can ensure that astronauts are equipped with technologically advanced, reliable, and adaptive systems as they venture into the great beyond.
As humanity steers its trajectory towards deep space exploration and extended periods of time on the moon, this unique and challenging environment will majorly amplify both physiological and psychological demands on astronauts. This vast and inhospitable frontier necessitates not only advanced propulsion and sustenance technologies but also cutting-edge human performance monitoring systems. Modern space suits are transitioning from merely providing life-sustaining environments to integrating real-time health monitors, offering instant feedback on astronaut health metrics and even countermeasures during health emergencies. Biometric wearables continuously track various physiological parameters, facilitating early health concern detection and insight into the human body's adaptation to space. Essential, too, is the evolution of communication systems capable of overcoming the immense distances and latency of space, maintaining a psychological lifeline, and enabling data relay to mission control. Additionally, tools promoting human-human monitoring become invaluable, fostering real-time crew support by identifying signs of stress or cognitive decline, a vital component to assess for the sake of team performance and maintaining crew dynamics.
This review will delve into the current human performance monitoring technology previously described, as well as highlight the intricate web of monitoring that is further enhanced by next-generation life support systems, equipped with predictive analytics to pre-emptively address potential malfunctions. Robotics, often designed to venture where humans cannot, now bear sensors to monitor their human counterparts, ensuring optimal functioning. Artificial Intelligence emerges as a linchpin, adept at swiftly processing vast data arrays, predicting health challenges, and dynamically adjusting mission parameters for safety. Lastly, the inclusion of autonomous systems, pivotal during communication lapses or crew incapacitation, ensures mission integrity. In this review, we rigorously examine the latest in these monitoring technologies, evaluating their capabilities and challenges, and discuss strategies aimed at enhancing human performance during deep space voyages. The synergy of these innovations holds the promise of safer, more successful explorations into the unknown expanses of our universe.
Method
Literature Review
The primary aim of this review is to highlight the physiological and psychological challenges of prolonged exposure to the space environment and in isolation. Further, we will provide solutions based on current literature that suggests specific forms of technology used to monitor human performance and mitigate negative aspects of prolonged spaceflight. Additionally, this review will recommend potential needs for further research and technological innovations to enhance human performance and mitigate the major risks of deep space exploration. Peer-reviewed and empirical research was utilized to provide insight on this domain, major physiological and psychological decrements of prolonged exposure to the space environment, the current forms of technology used to monitor performance, as well as continuing and recommended innovations to aid in solving these vital problems. Here, we present a literature review that includes both peer-reviewed literature and empirical articles.
Our research team used the search terms “space”, “human performance in space”, “human performance monitoring”, “health tracking”, “health monitoring”, “performance technology”, “human performance technology”, “astronaut teams”, “astronaut team technology”, “biometric”, “biometric tracking”, “biometric spacesuit”, “communication in space”, “human-human monitoring”, “life-support systems”, “AI systems in space”, and “robotics in space” in the following databases: PsychInfo, Google Scholar, PubMed and the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Hunt Library. Articles were collected from April, 2002 through January, 2023 for a wide enough time range to gain ample information on the various aspects being considered in the current review.
Main Findings
The cutting-edge developments in deep space exploration technology aren't just theoretical but are grounded in tangible, real-world applications. For instance, the ‘Bio-Monitor’ system, which was tested aboard the International Space Station (ISS), is a prime example of advanced biometric wearables. This smart shirt, designed by the Canadian Space Agency, is capable of measuring and recording vital signs, offering continuous health monitoring in the challenging microgravity environment. It tracks parameters such as blood pressure, skin temperature, and oxygen levels, providing a comprehensive health status of the astronaut. Further, SpaceX's Starman suit, worn by astronauts on the Crew Dragon missions, is a testament to the progression of space suit technology. While details of its integrated biometric systems remain proprietary, it's designed to work seamlessly with the Crew Dragon's seat and spacecraft to ensure astronaut safety by monitoring vital signs and ambient conditions. Additionally, NASA's xEMU (Exploration Extravehicular Mobility Unit), set to be used in the upcoming Artemis missions to the Moon, showcases innovations in suit flexibility while potentially integrating advanced health monitoring systems to safeguard astronauts during extravehicular activities.
As we look to the future, it's evident that integration and enhancement remain pivotal. Companies like Lockheed Martin are exploring the fusion of AI with human biometrics for real-time health analytics. Moreover, the Orion spacecraft's Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) represents a step forward in autonomous life support, capable of adapting to changing conditions and potential hazards. However, while these advancements in technology are extraordinary, the frontier of deep space is vast and mysterious, necessitating continued research. Emphasizing collaboration between entities like NASA, ESA (European Space Agency), and private entities like SpaceX and Blue Origin will be key. By pooling resources, knowledge, and innovative spirit, we can ensure that astronauts are equipped with technologically advanced, reliable, and adaptive systems as they venture into the great beyond.
Event Type
Poster Presentation
TimeMonday, March 254:45pm - 6:15pm CDT
LocationSalon C
Digital Health
Simulation and Education
Hospital Environments
Medical and Drug Delivery Devices
Patient Safety Research and Initiatives