"Trustworthy Wearable Tech: Astronauts' Solution to Space Disorientation"
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Gizmodo
Researchers at Brandeis University's Ashton Graybiel Spatial Orientation Lab have developed a wearable device called vibrotactors that can help astronauts combat spatial disorientation in space. The device uses vibration cues to indicate an astronaut's orientation in their environment. Through a series of experiments, it was found that astronauts can effectively use the vibrotactors if they receive specialized training to rely on the device rather than their natural gravitational cues. However, there is still a conflict between internal cues and the device's vibrations, making it challenging for astronauts to instinctively trust the device in high-pressure situations. Further research will focus on implementing lunar and Martian gravitational levels to simulate being on the surface of another world.