Zero-G Gravity Simulator

1 Describe what issue this technology solves:Currently there is no way to simulate gravity during deep space missions. To reduce physical symptoms of long term micro-G exposure (i.e. SANS), this uses centrifugal forces to simulate effects of gravity on the human system. 2. Describe what is new and better than existing technologies:This experiment seeks to prove that human powered or minimally mechanically assisted centrifugal force can simulate enough force to mimic the effects of gravity on the human system and reduce intracranial fluid build up. There is also a marginal muscular effort expended to partially satisfy the daily resistance training requirements. Ongoing research indicates that individuals with at least 2 of the 4 know risk factors for SANS may be aided by a full suite of vitamin B-Complex supplementation. We will add this to the testing protocol beginning 15 days prior to testing. 3. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTIONFor the purpose of this experiment the .65m diameter centrifuge ring is affixed firmly to the floor. The ring is comprised of 5cm brass-colored aluminum ring or similar light weight metal or composite. In the center of the ring is an image (can be selectable by the subject) affixed to a turntable. The turntable is capable of rotations of 15, 30, 45, and 60 RPM. These rotation rates are to simulate 1/6, 1/3, 1/2 and 2/3 Earth gravity for a 2m tall human. The purpose of the image is for the subject to keep the image in an upright position at the various rotation speeds to eliminate motion sickness and maintain the proper RPM. Using the Johnson Space Center ARGOS Gravity Simulation Lab, the subject is suspended in a harness parallel to the floor to simulate weightlessness. While suspended, the subject focuses on the image affixed to the turntable as it begins to rotate at the selected speed. To keep the image centered and upright the subject must grip the ring and rotate in time with the turntable, keeping the head centered over the ring. If subjects are unable to manually keep up with the RPM necessary, then a mechanical motor beneath the turntable and attached to the harness will need to be used. While the subject is rotating, pressure cuffs on the lower extremities measure the pressure build up. This data is compared to pre-experiment measurements taken while the subject is suspended in the prone position. Post experiment measurements will also be recorded.Test subjects ideally will be astronauts who have already participated in a long duration space mission so we can get feedback on their experience as it compares to space flight. Other subjects can be both otherwise healthy male and female subjects. Another avenue of exploration for this experiment is to select subject astronauts who have experienced significant SANS symptoms and test whether this spin test significantly reduced ocular pressure and relieved SANS symptoms via optical coherence tomography (OCT).Timeline: one-half day to one full day. Subjects will have prone measurements taken at extremity pressure points prior to testing. Each test run will be separated by 20-30 min seated rest (while other subjects are being tested.) Post experiment measurements will be taken and a survey of subjects experience will be given. Once the data supports the experiment is ready for flight testing, stage 2 is aboard the Zero-G aircraft and the use procedures can be validated. In space crew will have access to the equipment and abbreviated tests will be recreated in actual micro g. As the return to Earth approaches, subjects will increase frequency, speed and duration for experiment to prepare for return to 1g. Post-flight recovery surveys will be given to assess how well subjects re-adapted to 1g.