Self-marking of anatomical landmarks for on-orbit experimental motion analysis compared to expert direct-marking

Hum Mov Sci. 2002 Oct;21(4):439-55. doi: 10.1016/s0167-9457(02)00115-x.

Abstract

The on-orbit application of movement analysis methodology, on-board space stations, for studying the gravity role in motor functions, requires a careful adaptation of the currently adopted techniques in order to obtain reliable data. In those operative conditions, differently from common on-ground experimental activities, a non-specialist operator, an astronaut of the space station crew, is expected to self-administer the experimental protocol, particularly self-marking specific anatomical landmarks. The present paper proposes a movement analysis methodology, which fits the specific constraints of space activity and matches the objective of maximising reliability and minimising on-orbit time, and reports normative data about accuracy and precision of the self-marking of an extended set of anatomical landmarks. The same set of landmarks has been considered also for direct-marking performed by experts in motion analysis and their results have been compared to self-marking ones. The paper contents will support the design of future space experimental campaigns and is, in general, applicable to any on-ground scientific investigation, possibly increasing data reliability.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Data Collection / methods*
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Humans
  • Psychomotor Performance*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Space Flight*
  • Space Simulation
  • Weightlessness*