Applications of extended reality in spaceflight for human health and performance

Abstract

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are rapidly developing technologies that may have important healthcare-related applications, including the possible evaluation of the health and performance of astronauts. Advances in the fields of VR/AR and space exploration have independently progressed; however, over the last decade synergies and overlapping applications have emerged between spaceflight and extended reality. This paper is intended to be a resource to update the medical community on the current and future integration of VR and AR into space exploration, particularly as this integration relates to astronaut health. We highlight how these technologies are used in terrestrial healthcare with specific attention to visual function. Furthermore, we elaborate on emerging VR applications being developed for future spaceflight. The paper discusses the current state of the art, such as the Apple Vision Pro headset, and outlines key challenges like mass and volume constraints, power limitations, and the heightened cognitive and physical demands of space travel. It also addresses the potential of VR/AR technologies to mitigate these issues through efficiency, stress reduction, and exercise motivation. Finally, we emphasize the benefits that these technologies provide to overcome possible barriers to long duration spaceflight and manned exploration missions, including spaceflight associated neuro-ocular syndrome (SANS).