About Human Factors and Behavioral Performance

The Human Factors and Behavioral Performance (HFBP) element seeks to understand and mitigate the risks that future missions to explore the Moon, Mars, and beyond may pose to the behavioral health and performance of astronauts, helping to ensure that crews can carry out mission tasks.

Isolation and confinement, deep space radiation, and altered gravity in a hostile, closed environment far from Earth contribute to these risks. HFBP conducts behavioral health research on Earth and in space related to sleep, cognitive function, and team cohesion and performance. HFBP also develops strategies that ensure crew health and performance related to spacecraft design, training, human-robotic interactions, and psychological and team readiness for exploration missions.

HFBP collaborates with the Department of Defense, the Federal Aviation Administration, and other government agencies to accomplish its goals. Research universities and medical schools also act as essential partners in HFBP-supported studies.

Learn more about future research opportunities and how to collaborate with HFBP here.