Psychological Issues Relevant to Astronaut Selection for Long-Duration Space Flight: A Review of the Literature
Abstract
Since the inception of the manned spaced program, there has been an emphasis on selecting only those astronauts who would be the most psychologically resistant to problems which could result from the exotic, stressful, and unforgiving environment of space. This paper addresses space- related behavioral problems experienced by the United States and the Soviet Union. Specifically addressed are contentious episodes and impaired judgements that occurred during the Mercury, Apollo, and Skylab missions. Interpersonal dissension has repeatedly occurred among the astronauts and with the authorities on the ground at Houston control. The careful selection procedures which have been used in the past have failed to predict that astronauts would be so adversely affected by the stresses of space flight. Soviet cosmonauts also experienced repetitive episodes of interpersonal tension and poor judgement during their recording-breaking Salyut space missions. The behavioral problems which occur during space flight often do not terminate when the space flight ends, but linger with notable afteraffects. The post-flight problems of ex- astronauts and the implications of isolation and confinement for future long- duration space flights are discussed. Other variables (e.g., compatibility, cohesiveness, crew size, and crew performance) which affect group interaction, and the need for psychological compatibility of space crewmembers, are addressed using both American and Soviet literature. Also addressed are evolutionary changes in the space mission and the psychological tests that have been used for astronaut selection.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA154051
Entities
People
- Daniel L. Collins
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory