"The Impact of Crew Isolation and Lunar Simulation on Human Behavior" Technical Report

Milky Way over the Big Island, Hawai'i

Technical Report Abstract.pdf

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Thank you for your interest in this Analog Astronaut Research project. You can view the abstract and research outline through the link above. If you’d like access to the full text, please feel free to reach out via email at sgacel@gmail.com.

My personal research focused on human basic needs and “The Impact of Crew Isolation and Lunar Simulation on Human Behavior.” In addition, I served as an on-site therapist for the crew when needed. Through these experiences, I studied patterns in fundamental human needs, including sleep, nutrition, hygiene, job satisfaction, social connection, and recreation. The results are currently being reviewed and prepared for publication and future studies.

This work was conducted during my time as an analog astronaut at HI-SEAS (Hawaii Space Exploration Analog and Simulation), a research habitat designed to replicate lunar and Martian environments. I participated in the EMMIHS-23 “Lokahi” mission—short for EuroMoonMars International MoonBase Alliance HI-SEAS 2023. Our crew selected the name “Lokahi,” which means Unity in Hawaiian, reflecting the importance of collaboration in isolation.

As part of this mission, I studied crew psychology within a simulated lunar habitat, helping inform preparation for future long-duration spaceflight to the Moon and beyond. Analog astronaut missions like these replicate the conditions of extended space travel in environments similar to those planned for real Moon and Mars explorations. Research responsibilities include conducting scientific, educational, and exploratory activities to identify potential challenges, test in-situ resource utilization technologies, and prepare the next generation of astronauts.

If you're interested in reading more about the mission, please visit Analog Astronaut Research