Human Factors in Space Flight

After 40 years of experience with human space flight (Table 1), the current emphasis is on the design of space vehicles, habitats, and missions to ensure mission success. What lessons have we learned that will affect the design of spacecraft for future space exploration, leading up to exploring Mars? This entry addresses this issue in four sections: Anthropometry and biomechanics; Environmental factors; Habitability and architecture; and Crew personal sustenance. This introductory section introduces factors unique to space flight.