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Spacecraft Interior Design for Human Well-being

Abstract

Today’s spacecraft are equipped to sustain human physical well-being beyond Earth. Yet, when it comes to less-quantifiable health factors, such as mental and emotional well-being, there is limited research on how those are influenced long-term by a spacecraft’s physical environment. 

Currently, maintaining well-being in space is not a major difficulty. Rigorous astronaut selection processes and training ensure the physical and mental fortitude of each human who flies to space. Residents keep up morale with crew gatherings and holiday celebrations. Proximity to Earth allows a constant view of the planet, regular payload gifts, and reliable communication with friends and family, keeping home close by.

Yet, as we aim beyond Earth and the moon, missions will increase in distance and duration. Payload deliveries will be less frequent, Earth communication will lag. As space travel durations and distances increase, it becomes even more important to shape healthy outer space experiences for astronauts. A spacecraft’s internal environment will play a major role in that experience, especially if it is the same environment travellers will live in with the same people for months, even years. 

Using a framework adapted from the International WELL Building Institute, this paper explores basic principles that form the foundation for a healthy spacecraft interior. Its vision: to help guide engineers and designers in creating outer space living environments where humans can not just survive, but also thrive.