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| Interaction of the Space Shuttle Launch and Entry Suit and Sustained Weightlessness on Egress Locomotion |
| DSO 331 |
| In-Cabin |
| Prime: Steven Hawley |
| Backup: Michel Tognini |
| Overview |
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This DSO will identify the impact of the launch and entry suit (LES)/advanced crew escape suit (ACES) and sustained weightlessness on the mechanical efficiency of astronauts' egress locomotion as measured by oxygen consumption and gait alteration; identify the impact of the LES/ACES on physiological responses as measured by oxygen consumption, increased body temperature, heart rate, and ventilatory equivalent; and determine if crew members can sustain a uniform speed for 400 meters when they leave the orbiter. Crew members participating in this DSO will attach the egress monitor assembly to themselves before they put on the LES/ACES for reentry. As soon after the flight as possible, they will walk 400 meters on a treadmill at 3.5 mph with the LES/ACES on. |
| History/Background |
| One important unanswered question about space flight is whether astronauts wearing the launch and entry suit are able to leave the orbiter at wheel stop in an emergency and walk to safety. Past investigations have demonstrated that astronauts moving at even a medium pace while wearing the LES experience an increase in energy expenditure of as much as 55 percent. Other studies have indicated that even short-duration space flights can reduce astronauts' aerobic capacity and cause a significant loss of strength and function, especially in astronauts' lower limbs and back. The combined effect of reduced muscle function and aerobic capacity may be great enough to negatively affect astronauts' ability to safely leave the orbiter at wheel stop in an emergency. |
Editorial/Technical Comments: ShuttlePresskit
