Research Summary

Many factors can impact an astronaut’s ability to work well in space or on the lunar surface. The Human Factors and Performance Team is studying ways to improve daily living and keep crewmembers healthy, productive and safe during exploration missions. Overall Team aims are to reduce performance errors and mitigate habitability, environmental and behavioral factors that pose significant risk to mission success. The Team develops guidelines for human systems design and information tools to support crew performance. Team members are examining ways to improve sleep and scheduling of work shifts as well as how specific types of lighting in the craft and habitat can improve alertness and performance. Other projects address nutritional countermeasures and how factors in the environment, such as lunar dust, can impact crew health.

Team Leader:
George C. Brainard, Ph.D.
Thomas Jefferson University

Associate Team Leader:
Elizabeth B. Klerman, M.D., Ph.D.
Harvard Medical School-Brigham and Women's Hospital