Characteristics of operator performance in controlling a virtual lunar rover during simulated lunar gravity

The work is devoted to evaluation of parameters of operator performance (OP) during controlling the lunar rover using the virtual reality (YR) technique “Lunar mission simulator”. Yirtual systems are a safe and controlled area for training and research of traumatic and dangerous situations. Physiological effects of lunar gravity were simulated by orthostatic hypokinesia (OH) with a body angle of+9.6 relative to the horizon. The influence of lunar gravity to certain extent affects cardiovascular and respiratory system that cannot help influencing on the operator’s work, especially during adaptation of a body to new conditions. There was analyzed the data from four healthy subjects who were in orthostatic hypokinesia for two weeks. Data of OP and cardiorespiratory reactions during OP was recorded at the stage before hypokinesia (baseline data) and on 13th day of OH in the study. It was established that the time indicators of OP such as reaction time on emergency situations and expended time of the task in tight time tended to worsening in simulated conditions. The results of the dynamics of cardio-respiratory system parameters reflect multidirectional changes when performing operator work: a decrease in blood pressure and respiratory rate, and an increase in heart rate.