Handbook of Aerospace and Operational Physiology

Abstract : This handbook is designed to be a reference for aerospace physiologists and technicians in the U.S. Air Force. It contains information about physiologic principles and application of those principles to Air Force flight operations. While it is not designed to be a clinical resource, references to clinical materials are provided to allow further study. The first two sections contain information on basic human physiology and Earth's atmosphere pertinent to the field of aerospace physiology. Section 3 reviews the environmental effects of the atmosphere, and Section 4 addresses human performance. Sections 5-7 address aircraft systems, crewmembers' personal equipment, and the mission-imposed effects on performance and survivability. Section 8 reviews training, activities, and resources needed for aerospace physiologists to accomplish their duties. The appendices provide reference tables and procedures related to the career field and short biographies of the contributing authors/subject matter experts.