Sleep Patterns of Crewmembers in Mission IV of the Hawaii Space Exploration Analog and Simulation (HI-SEAS): A Pilot Study

Abstract

The Hawaii Space Exploration Analog and Simulation (HI-SEAS) conducts simulated Mars missions to study the biopsychosocial impacts of isolated and confined living conditions and to assess space-flight crew dynamics, behaviors, roles and performance. This pilot study assessed the sleep-related behaviors of crewmembers during one month of Mission IV. Participants (N=4) wore actigraphs and completed activity logs. We identified substantive individual differences in sleep-related behaviors, physical activity and exposure to light between the crewmembers. These factors are important determinants of human alertness, stress, and mood. Due to the small crew of astronauts on a Mars mission and the conditions in which they will have to live for extended periods of time, the effect of these stressors on team performance, cohesion, and resilience may be exacerbated. Recommendations are provided for the holistic sleep-related assessment of the crewmembers participating in the 8-month Mission V.

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