CREW SYSTEMS - INTEGRATING HUMAN AND TECHNICAL SUBSYSTEMS FOR THE EXPLORATION OF SPACE

Space exploration missions will require combining human and technical subsystems into overall ''crew systems'' capable of performing under t he rigorous conditions of outer space. This report describes substanti ve and conceptual relationships among humans, intelligent machines, an d communication systems, and explores how these components may be comb ined to complement and strengthen one another. We identify key researc h issues in the combination of humans and technology and examine the r ole of individual differences, group processes, and environmental cond itions. We conclude that a crew system is, in effect, a social cyborg, a living system consisting of multiple individuals whose capabilities are extended by advanced technology.