On the subject of lunar exploration: some engineering-psychology and medical problems

Proposals prepared by Roscosmos and Russian Academy of Sciences working group for integration of programs for use of unmanned and manned lunar exploration vehicles are a subject of active discussions among scientists and specialists in the space industry. The paper discusses some subjects related to the engineering-psychology and medical aspects of the lunar exploration plan. These include: Development of efficient means of prevention of inadvertent effects on the lunar base operators perception and sensory-motor skills of cumulative exposure to g-loads and zero-gravity during flight to the Moon followed by a long exposure to lunar gravity which is lower than the Earth gravity; calculation of lunar base habitability parameters: optimal personal space, lighting conditions, locations of functional areas, addressing the issues involved in creating good conditions for life and recreation, communications, psychological support from Earth; development of simulators for operator training, man-machine interface, equipment to monitor robotic activities, enabling an operator at a remote location (where there is a signal delay) to control complex machinery with high reliability and optimal «psycho-physiological costs» using state-of-the-art information technologies; development of medical and psychological criteria for selecting and training operators for a space complex in lunar orbit and a lunar base. The paper presents a case for joining efforts of space engineers and physicians in the above areas of activities.