Visual and Tactile Perception in Deep Space: Accommodating a Reduction in Vision

Poster Image
Research poster on visual and tactile perception in deep space, focusing on SANS and sensorimotor enhancer technology.
Poster Session
B
Poster Number
01
Project Author(s)
Rose Jardine
Institution
Portland State University
Project Description

This research will provide insight to accommodating Spaceflight Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome (SANS) when operating and performing tasks in low-light, no light, and long duration spaceflight, such as the Artemis Missions. Vision is disrupted in about 70% of astronauts, making it necessary to find viable options to mitigate this impaired sense until more research can be completed on this common disorder. There are documented medical cases examining where certain senses compensate for an impairment in others, offering suitable alternative options via enhancing perceptual abilities. Incorporating tactile feedback into a hands-on solution will benefit astronauts’ ability to distinguish between a variety of textures and materials, which is useful in a vision impaired environment. Current technologies are already utilizing stochastic resonance to enhance mechanoreception in the fingertips. These devices will provide object and control distinction, as well as a method for communication, utilizing textural differentiation. The International Space Station (ISS) implements The Page 8 of 11 2022 Spring Symposium Proceedings Gravitational References for Sensorimotor Performance: Reaching and Grasping (GRASP) test in ongoing research. Testing stochastic resonance for mechanoreception in combination with the GRASP test will show promising results in the advancement of SANS research for the future of deep space exploration.