The Role of Different Afferent Systems in the Modulation of the Otolith-Ocular Reflex After Long-Term Space Flights.

Background: The vestibular (otolith) function is highly suppressed during space flight (SF) and the study of these changes is very important for the safety of the space crew during SF missions. The vestibular function (particularly, otolith-ocular reflex-OOcR) in clinical and space medicine is studied using different methodologies. However, different methods and methodologies can influence the outcome results.

Gaze control and vestibular-cervical-ocular responses after prolonged exposure to microgravity.

Background: Microgravity does not affect visual function directly. However, because of the altered afferentation from vestibular, support, and tactile-proprioceptive systems, it could lead to disturbances in visual tracking and inhibit the cosmonaut's activity. Therefore, it is necessary to obtain quantitative evaluations of spaceflight effects upon gaze control and vestibular-cervical-ocular responses.