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Visual Problems of Space Travel (1962) / Chapter Skim
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The Visual Effects of Weightlessness and Simulated Gravity
Pages 14-19

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From page 14...
... The Visual Effects of Weightlessness and Simulated Gravity Since the end of World War II, numerous articles have been written concerning the subject of weightlessness. Inasmuch as true weightlessness can be experienced only when the force of gravity is absent or ia counterbalanced by an opposite force, much of what is contained in the literature is based on speculation.
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From page 15...
... , along with the fact that he usually performs gross movements in only two dimensions greatly simplifies the problem of navigating his body within the confines of his immediate physical environment. In a spacecraft this reference may be lacking and in addition, at some future time when large space stations have been established, man may have the added complication of being required to maneuver his body in three dimensions almost continuously.
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From page 16...
... It will be necessary for occupants to learn to move continuously in three-dimensional space and not on a single reference or ground plane in any given compartment. Under conditions of zero G, restriction on body positions which apply at 1 G will not apply and the most efficient design of work spaces and the integration of the locations of the several occupants of a given compartment will require a careful consideration of the additional flexibility afforded by the weightless state.
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From page 17...
... Hence, any potential astronaut should undergo extensive training and indoctrination to prevent any incapacitation due to these effects. There appear to be three basic methods of dealing with the problem of weightlessness.
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From page 18...
... Although from a technical standpoint such a system is entirely feasible, the stresses which it presents to the occupants may be severe. An excellent study performed recently in Pensacola pertains directly to this problem (Clark b Graybiel, 1960; Graybiel, Clark, b Zarriello, 1960)
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From page 19...
... Although this study was concerned with many different parameters, the visual illusions experienced by the subjects are capable of inducing severe disorientation for the unwary subject. If, in the future, a space vehicle or platform is utilized which incorporates constant angular rotation, extreme care must be given to the design of the interior so as to minimize, if possible, some of the effects just described.
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Key Terms

  • weightless state
  • visual illusions
  • received wide
  • maintaining effective
  • study performed

  • appropriately designed
  • orientation schemes
  • experimental procedure
  • produced peripheral
  • spacecraft designed

  • multiple occupancy
  • undergo extensive
  • treated adequately
  • future orbital
  • space layout

  • complete living
  • unlearn orientation
  • planning training
  • nonrectangular spatial
  • experimental evidence

  • efficient design
  • unanticipated effects
  • dimensions greatly
  • inner ears
  • inducing severe

  • function adequately
  • effects produced
  • work spaces
  • coriolis illusions
  • inner ear


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