PHYSIOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS OF ARTIFICIAL SPACECRAFT ATMOSPHERES

Abstract : The results of physiological evaluations of artificial spacecraft atmospheres carried out over an eight year period are summarized. The atmospheres studied include those consisting of pure oxygen and mixed gas (oxygen-nitrogen); additional factors evaluated include simulated launch and reentry accelerations, decompression, and exercise. Findings regarding changes in pulmonary function and incidence of decompression sickness are discussed in term of exposure duration, sequence of applied stresses, and objective and subjective responses. The importance of individual reactions to imposed stresses is pointed out by particular examples, and the relations of such reactions to formulating judgments on the suitability of specific atmospheres are discussed. (Author)