Motor strategies evaluation based on biomechanical constraints under microgravity conditions

Abstract

In the frame of the 179 days EUROMIR '95 space mission, two experiments have foreseen quantitative 3D human movement analysis in microgravity, by means of a space qualified version of an opto-electronic motion analyser based on passive markers. Referring to the subject performance of two protocols of voluntary posture perturbation (axial movements and leg raising), goal of the present experimental activity was to investigate if long term adaptation processes could allow the development of specific microgravity kinematics strategies involving the suppression of typical terrestrial motor habits. On the basis of the recorded 3D marker co-ordinates, the elaboration included the evaluation of the position of the centre of mass and the estimation of the total angular momentum at the ankle joint. As one shall see, the minimisation of the perturbation at the ankle joint assumes a strategic role in microgravity, suggesting that energy saving could be a key point in the organisation of motor performance.