Chapter 12 Vestibular Function and Sensory Interaction in Altered Gravity

Abstract

The effects of weightlessness on vestibular function have been studied since the beginning of manned spaceflight. The results of these studies have been highly variable and to some extent even contradictory, which makes it difficult to draw unambiguous conclusions. This variability is probably due to at least three factors: (1) individual differences in the adaptive process, (2) non-standardized experimental methods and conditions, (3) a lack of integrated experiments. For this reason, we have used a single integrated approach with a specially developed battery of tests. The results thus obtained for 21 cosmonauts on short- and long-term flights are reviewed here, and discussed in the light of the results obtained by others. Changes in the operation of the vestibular system and in all functions based on vestibular afferent input are commonly observed in spaceflight. These changes are characteristic for the process of adaptation and re-adaptation to altered gravity. They occur in a high proportion of persons exposed to such conditions, although there are individual differences with regard to severity, nature, time and duration of occurrence, and the dynamics of the process. Analysis of the observations in a large number of cosmonauts has permitted to distinguish three types of adaptation of the system to altered gravity. The first type of adaptation is characterized by a strong response to any stimulus during the initial adaptation period. The second type of adaptation is characterized by responses that are drastically decreased or even absent. The third type of adaptation is distinguished by the selective response of the sensory system to certain types of stimulation only. After long-term missions the process of re-adaptation usually takes a more severe course than the earlier process of adaptation to microgravity. Both adaptation and re-adaptation follow an undulating course, in which adaptation and re-adaptation are alternating. This is most conspicuous during long-term flights, and it suggests that in the initial stage of adaptation to weightlessness the vestibular input plays a dominant role, while at the end of the adaptation process the visual input prevails.