European vestibular experiments on the Spacelab-1 mission: 2. Experimental equipment and methods

A series of vestibular experiments were performed in conjunction with the first Spacelab mission, consisting of sets of pre-, in- and postflight tests. A multipurpose experimental apparatus used for the diverse flight and ground tests is presented. Additional apparatus together with the multi-purpose package were used in the baseline data collection facility at the landing site at NASA Dryden Flight Research Facility for the ground tests. The tests involved optokinetic, caloric and mechanical (whole-body or head-alone) stimulation. The latter included linear acceleration in the subject's x, y and z axes, static roll and yaw about an earth-vertical axis. Physiological parameters such as electro-oculogram (EOG), blood-volume-pulse (BVP), respiration, as well as the stimulus variables such as acceleration and caloric temperature were transmitted to the ground and recorded there. The flight and ground testing schedules are outlined. Problems arising from this complex venture are discussed, and some suggestions are made for future improvement.