Vestibulo-Oculomotor Research in Space

by Andrew H. Clarke

Overview

This monograph describes the findings of spaceflight research related to spatial orientation, sensorimotor coordination and mental function. Exposed to the microgravity conditions of spaceflight, the human experiences a variety of physiological and psychological problems, which are presented here. Recent findings of sensory motor research in space are depicted and their benefits for life on earth discussed. The examination of the vestibulo-oculomotor system for example has led to the development of innovative devices for the measurement of three-dimensional eye and head movements. These devices are currently employed in Earthbound applications such as eye laser surgery.

The book is written for students and researchers in neurosciences, biomedical engineering, for neurologists and psychologists as well as for persons wanting to know more about biomedical research in space and its application on earth.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9783319599328
Publisher:	Springer International Publishing
Publication date:	09/02/2017
Series:	SpringerBriefs in Space Life Sciences
Edition description:	1st ed. 2017
Pages:	74
Product dimensions:	6.10(w) x 9.25(h) x (d)

About the Author

Prof. Dr. Andrew Clarke was head of the Vestibular Research Laboratory, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Charité Medical School in Berlin, where he developed the three-dimensional eye movement measurement techniques, he was Principal Investigator on spaceflight and parabolic flight experiments. Since 2013 Andrew Clarke is Prof. Emeritus Dept. of Neuroanatomie, Charité Medical School, Berlin, Germany.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Sensory Motor Physiology.- Spatial orientation, vestibulo-oculomotor research and space motion sickness.- Posture and locomotion.- Sensorimotor coordination.- Mental performance and cognition.- Nervous system development in microgravity.- Outlook: Space research and technology benefitting life on Earth.