Abstract: Contrast sensitivity and eye micromovements in a model experiment to study the effect of gravitation changes on visual perception. Visual perception plays a critical role in providing the brain with the necessary information for decision making, building a comprehensive view of the world, and adapting to changing environmental conditions. The objective of this study was to investigate and measure the visual contrast sensitivity, as well as the ocular microtremor during a 7-day «dry» immersion, simulating gravity changes. “Dry” immersion (DI) is one of the most effective ways to recreate microgravity's physiological effects, including physical inactivity (hypokinesia and hypodynamia), support lessness, and hydrostatic compression. Measurements were taken the day before the immersion (BG), on the 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 7th days of DI (DI1, DI3, DI5, DI7), and after its completion (R1). The visual contrast sensitivity was measured by presenting Gabor elements with spatial frequencies of 0.4, 1.0, 3.0, 6.0, and 10.0 cycles/deg. During «dry» immersion, significant differences in contrast sensitivity were noted in the low and high spatial frequency range when transitioning from gravity to microgravity conditions (BG and DI3). The amplitude and frequency of ocular microtremor were examined using a high-frequency optical system. Our observations indicate significant reductions in ocular microtremor amplitudes within a wide range on the third, fifth, and seventh days of «dry» immersion. Following the immersion period, the amplitude increased and returned to baseline levels. The data obtained in this study help to better understand the body's adaptation to microgravity conditions and develop new approaches to ensure the safety and efficiency of space missions, including long-duration spaceflight. Supported by Russian Science Foundation (Project No. 22-18-00074)

Cite: Zelenskaya I.S. , Shoshina I.I. , Bekreneva M.P. , Lyapunov S.I.
Contrast sensitivity and ocular microtremor in a model experiment to study the effect of changes in gravity on visual perception
20th Days of Applied Psychology 27-28 Sep 2024