Space

What are analogue environments?

Man lives in many environments that can be called extreme environments (EE). These include, for example, places with extreme temperatures, excessive levels of atmospheric pressure, microgravity, disrupting circadian rhythms, areas with a high risk of physical injury, crowded or completely deserted. It is not always possible to directly study human behaviour in extreme situations; hence we use the so-called analogous environments that show some similarities in influencing human behaviour. Analogue conditions are used in particular to understand human behaviour during space flights and work in space stations. Space research is complicated, expensive and can be conducted only on a limited population. Therefore observations and experiments in analogous environments constitute a very useful source of knowledge.

How do analogue space stations work?

An analogy to the study of human behaviour in outer space may be, among others, polar stations, oil rigs, submarines, or naturally isolated small communities. Much information can also be obtained by conducting experimental studies in which volunteers are asked to live for a specified time in isolated and extreme conditions. Numerous space habitats are operating all over the world, which are analogue simulations of a space station. In these facilities, analogue astronauts decide to isolate themselves in small teams voluntarily. Their behaviour is subject to observation, and various experiments are carried out there. The main goal is to enable the most effective organization of real space missions.

Analogue space research programs are carried out, among others, by: Underwater Technology Center (NUTEC), NASA Extreme Environment Mission Operations (NEEMO), Desert Research and Technology Studies (D-RATS), Mars Desert Research Station Program, Arctic Mars Analog Svalbard Expedition (AMASE), Pavilion Lake Research Project (PLRP ), Haughton Mars Project (HMP). In Poland we have The Lunares Research Base, which was created in 2017. It specializes in simulating human-crewed space missions on the Moon and Mars.

Why do astronauts need a psychologist?

Astronauts operate in an extreme environment, which means that they are affected by numerous physical and psychological stressors. The individual's survival is closely dependent on technology and the effectiveness of the entire team. A very complex psychological and physiological adaptation is required from the astronaut; hence, psychologists play an important role in research and training future space explorers.

Still, little is known about human adaptation to a long-term space mission; conclusions are drawn from a relatively limited amount of research. Many reports of psychological problems occurring in outer space are based on anecdotal evidence, so there is a constant need to develop cooperation between psychologists and astronauts.

What am I researching?

In my research, I focus on the analysis of group dynamics during simulated space missions. I observe the emotional changes occurring in analogue astronauts during isolation, and I analyze whether individual personality and temperament traits are crucial for effective adaptation to life in outer space.

Apart from being used in real space flights, this knowledge may also support people's functioning in a pandemic situation. It can also help propose solutions for business teams in which all members' cooperation is crucial to achieving the goal.