LBNP exposure - as perspective countermeasure for Moon missions

Abstract

According to the existing scenarios of interplanetary missions, the Moon is considered as an intermediate base on the way to deep space. The paper presents the results of a pilot study performed during a short-term space flight. A new experience of using countermeasure impacts of lower body negative pressure at the early stages of adaptation to microgravity conditions has been gained. Preparation for extravehicular activity on the Moon's surface requires milder LBNP effects in comparison with preparation for return to Earth. Regulatory mechanisms of the cardiovascular system proved to be quite effective when creating decompression up to -20 mm Hg. For the first time the dynamics of motor control system readaptation, verticalization strategy and success of dual task solution from the first to the third day after the short-term space flight is described. Unique data on rearrangements of gravity-dependent physiological systems in short-term flight have been obtained. Assessment of the state of gravity-dependent physiological systems after short-term flight indicates the decrease of functional reserves of the organism and the necessity to develop appropriate countermeasures. The study was one of the first steps in the development of new medical control operations at the stage of paradigm shift from orbital flights to deep space exploration.