European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Luca Parmitano participates in a hearing test aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The Acoustic Upgraded Diagnostics In-Orbit (Acoustic Diagnostics) investigation tests the hearing of ISS crew members before, during, and after flight. This study assesses the possible adverse effects of noise and the microgravity environment aboard the ISS on human hearing.
NASA
Noise exposure in spaceflight can negatively impact hearing, but it can also cause other physiological effects (e.g., irritation, headaches, and degradation in sleep and relaxation). Noise can also affect performance of specific activities (e.g., working and speech communications) and impact crew performance. Even noise that the crew does not perceive as harmful may cause temporary or permanent reductions in hearing sensitivity, as crews may become desensitized to elevated noise levels or not consider the noise to be objectionable (i.e., broad-band, ultrasonic, or infrasonic noise).
HSRB Risk Record
+ Hearing Loss Risk Record (PDF)
Directed Acyclic Graph Files
+ DAG File Information (HSRB Home Page)
