Table of Contents

Science Experiments

Space Adaptation Syndrome Experiments

Dr. Douglas G.D. Watt, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec

The Space Adaptation Syndrome experiments are designed to study the nervous system's adaptation to the weightlessness of space. A series of experiments measured changes in the balance system that provides a sense of up and down and allows us to stand upright. Other experiments measured sensitivity to limb position and head movement and one tested the sense of touch to determine if any sensory block develops during weightlessness due to elongation of the spine.

Energy Expenditure in Spaceflight

Dr. Howard G. Parsons, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta

To design proper fitness programs for astronauts on long duration flights it is necessary to have accurate information on the amount of energy expended during space flight. This experiment calculated energy expenditure by tracing stable isotopes of oxygen and hydrogen in urine samples of crew members.

Evaluation of Nystagmus In and Out of Weightlessness

Dr. Joseph A. McClure, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario

Eye motion and the inner ear are closely related. Normal eyes are almost always moving slightly in an oscillatory scanning motion called nystagmus. In cases of injury or disease, this eye movement may cause dizziness and blurred vision. By performing tests in microgravity, researchers can determine if more than one type of nystagmus can occur simultaneously. The goal of the research is improved detection and treatment of inner ear disorders.

Phase Partitioning Experiment

Dr. Donald E. Brooks, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia

Phase partitioning is a process used to separate different kinds of molecules and cells out of complex mixtures. On Earth, it is difficult to separate substances with maximum purity because of gravity. This experiment led to a process having applications in medical research such as separation of bone marrow cells used in cancer treatment.

Back Pain in Astronauts

Dr. Peter C. Wing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia

This experiment investigates the symptoms of back pain in space possibly caused by elongation of the spine with the goal of developing techniques to be used before or during flight to alleviate its effects. This research also had spinoffs on Earth as a result of increased understanding of back pain.

Measurement of Venous Compliance and Evaluation of an Experimental Anti-Gravity Suit

Dr. Robert B. Thirsk, Canadian Space Agency, Ottawa, Ontario

To combat the after-effects of spaceflight (dizziness, loss of peripheral vision, etc.) astronauts wear an anti-gravity suit during landing. This experiment evaluated a new experimental suit. Another goal of this experiment was to measure the "venous compliance", or tone, of veins in the leg during the course of the mission to determine any changes.