EXPOSURE OF MAN TO LOW INTENSITY MAGNETIC FIELDS.
Abstract
Recent magnetic explorations in the proximity of the moon have measured a very low intensity lunar magnetic field. Man may become exposed during lunar landings to the practical absence of a magnetic field for prolonged periods of time. Since no systematic observations on the physiological and psychological effects of extremely low intensity magnetic fields are available, the present study makes an attempt to fill this gap. A shotgun approach was used in applying a number of varied tests to probe for possible physiological and/or psychological effects by exposure of two volunteers for ten days to a field of 50 gamma. It was found that the results of most of the tests were not influenced by the magnetic conditions. However, strong indications appear that the absence of the geomagnetic field causes a decrement in the visual field, the visual digit span, and especially in the peripheral critical flicker frequency tests. The findings, if substantiated, will have interest not only for exposure of man to lunar magnetic fields, but will also contribute to an understanding of cerebral mechanisms and of suspected physiological effects of the geomagnetic field. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 24, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0817516
Entities
People
- Dietrich E. Beischer
- Earl F. Miller Ii.