Clear Thinking in Deep Space: A Guide by Cognitive Scientists

Abstract

The effects of long-term space habitation on mental processing have been explored both on Earth and in space. This chapter highlights the key topics of study within the discipline of cognitive science that will help to plan for deep space habitation and ultimately further develop the scientific knowledge required to sustain and enhance human cognitive functioning in space. We illustrate how cognitive scientists study human cognition and the unexplored questions that will need to be answered as this knowledge is extended into new environments. We first focus on the selection of individuals into training for deep space habitationwhat key cognitive characteristics will these individuals need? How might we enhance current efforts in defining valid measurements to decide who should go into space for very long missions? The next challenge is training these individuals to perform mission critical tasks in spacehow might we design training programs that promote durable yet flexible cognitive structures, allowing efficient adaptation to the inherent unpredictability of space? Finally, we look toward monitoring of cognitive performance from within the individual and by external deviceshow we can sustain high-level thinking and prevent errors over extended durations in space? Being able to adapt to unfamiliar and extreme environments requires insight into cognitive structures and yet we do not have clear evidence for how the physical and physiological challenges of space impact upon this key aspect of cognitive functioning.