Individual Differences in Visual, Motor and Cognitive Performances: Correlations with a Simulated Shuttle Landing Task

Abstract

Numerous physiological changes which occur during and following space flight are well-documented. It seems likely that the frequency and severity of these physiological changes would be accompanied by changes in cognition, sensory system integrity, skilled motor control, and complex decision making. However, changes in performance in these areas are not well documented nor understood. Documenting the extent and nature of such potential performance decrements, to the extent that they occur, becomes increasingly important as NASA prepares for longer duration missions on space station and contemplates more complex missions in future exploration of space. We explored the application of a methodology we are developing called surrogate testing. The method requires the linkage of complex real world tasks to more elemental tasks. This report shows, as first steps, predictive validities of such tests for a simulated shuttle landing and provides a series of surrogate scores which can be used to evaluate stresses and drug effects.