Human Systems Integration Division @ NASA Ames

"The effects of chronic stress induced by sleep deprivation were examined in a recent study. Interest in behavioral issues is increasing as the emphasis in the US space program shifts from brief flights to long duration shuttle flights, space station missions, and the possibility of human explorations of other planets. It is possible that exposure to the chronic stress associated with long-duration missions will lead eventually to fatigue, physical, and emotional exhaustion. Acute stress might lead to a hyper-reactive physiological state that will negatively impact crew performance. Behavioral guidelines, training protocols, selection procedures and other countermeasures will play a central role in multidisciplinary efforts to maximize crew psychological health, well being and productivity in space.

The present study utilized a multi-factorial approach to examine the effects of chronic stress induced by 36 hours of sleep deprivation on neurobehavioral functions in two, healthy, young men and one woman. Their performance was assessed using a standard test battery that included a combination of cognitive, perceptual, and neuromotor tasks. Data were collected at 2- hour intervals while the participants