MG 489 Aviation and Space Human Factors
This course addresses the study of human factors associated with both aircraft and spacecraft flight within the atmosphere and in space. For aircraft pilots, the typical effects are studied such as altitude (low oxygen, hypoxia), gforces, disorientation, fatigue, etc. In space, humans suffer from effects like weightlessness, motion sickness, radiation and more. These phenomena are explored along with their detriments to both normal bodily functions and abilities to perform required technical maneuvers and other flight control commands. Cognitive effects are also addressed in both environments along with short and long term effects. Recent studies encompassing the yearlong stay of astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) will be reviewed in the context of this course.