Some physiological changes observed in human subjects during zero G simulation by immersion in water up to neck level.

Abstract

Abstract : Knowledge relative to the effects of prolonged weightlessness is needed in preparing man for space flight. The buoyant force exerted upon immersed bodies effectively simulates the eightless state with respect to proprioceptive sensory responses and perhaps in other ways. An investigation into the physiological effects of immersing subjects in water up to neck level was undertaken. A series of experiments involving 7 subjects immersed in water up to neck level for periods of 5 to 23 hours (5 subjects for 12 hours) showed a significant weight loss during the period of immersion, which was explained by the diuresis which occurred. Pulmonary volume measurements showed a decrease in the expiratory reserve volume and in the respiratory minute volume during immersion. There was no significant decrement in the performance of a tracking task, attributable to the water immersion, during exposure to a simulated space vehicle reentry deceleration profile. Exposure to 4.5 positive G for 15 seconds following water immersion revealed a decrement in tolerance in most subjects.