Physiological Factors Correlating With a Possible Circadian Nadir in G-Tolerance.
Abstract
Circadian variation in athletic performance has been shown to have potentially significant performance consequences for the athlete. This study has attempted to determine whether there is a practical difference between day and night G-tolerance in order to warn pilots of possible adverse consequences due to circadian effects. The subjects' G-tolerance testing times were selected in order to highlight the potential maximum circadian differences. This study leads one to conclude that if there is a circadian effect on a pilot's G-tolerance, it is a small one, or this study would have shown it, and the Air Force should feel more confident to send pilots to fly and fight at night. However, other influences such as lack of sleep and/or extreme levels of stress did seem to have larger effects on pilots' G-tolerance than the proposed circadian effect. Additionally, research on the effect of lighting on suppression of melatonin prior to a nighttime mission should be further investigated.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA359903
Entities
People
- Bruce A. Wright
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology