Is this research sponsored by NASA?
No, this is a fully independent research collaboration between Neurolingo Space, the University of St. Thomas, and the University of Houston. The study is conducted outside of Dr. Pilar Archila’s role as a NASA contractor. Any potential conflict of interest was reviewed and cleared prior to the initiation of this project.
As an independent research study, NASA approval is not required for contacting former astronauts. Participation is entirely voluntary, and former astronauts may choose to participate or decline at any time. The Institutional Review Board (IRB) at the University of St. Thomas oversees this project. All ideas, analyses, and conclusions are solely those of the research team and do not represent NASA.
A former astronaut is someone who was a professionally trained spaceflight crew member and performed mission duties. The individual received technical and operational training, and was assigned mission responsibilities (i.e., piloting, engineering, science experiments, spacewalks, etc.).
No. We welcome former astronauts from all language backgrounds and levels of experience.
Yes. All former astronauts who have traveled to space as part of a mission are welcome to participate. This includes former astronauts from any space agency or commercial spaceflight organization.
Former astronauts who are currently employed are encouraged to confirm that their voluntary participation does not conflict with their employer's policies or guidelines.
Given that this is an online questionnaire available to the public, we must first ensure that participants are verified as former astronauts or control participants. After signing the consent form and receiving a password to access the questionnaire, you will be able to review the entire survey. Approximately 90% of the questions relate to language history, while the remaining 10% address general aspects of cognitive health (e.g., social media use). You may skip any questions at any time or choose not to answer the questionnaire after reviewing it.
Since 1961, over 670 individuals have traveled to space (Hobbs, Astronomy). Of these, 290 have visited the International Space Station (NASA). Because this population is difficult to access, many human research studies involving astronauts are underpowered, often reporting case studies or samples of fewer than 10 individuals. In this study, we aim to double the current standard by recruiting approximately 20 former astronauts (minimum = 5, maximum = 200). However, a sample size of 20 former astronauts remains conservative, and we hope to increase it to ensure more robust findings if this online approach successfully improves accessibility and convenience for participation.
Insights from language history and cognitive profiles could inform countermeasures to improve communication, and crew interactions. Understanding language processing and neural adaptation in space could also lead to the development of post-flight strategies for faster recovery.
Research examining former astronauts’ language history and cognitive health could provide valuable insights into how the brain adapts to extreme environments and high cognitive demands. These findings could inform strategies to support cognitive function, learning, and mental resilience in aging adults, shift workers, or people in high-stress professions. Additionally, understanding language processing and neural adaptation in space may guide therapies for brain injury, neurodegenerative conditions, and optimize human performance in challenging environments on Earth.
Yes. All responses will be de-identified prior to data analysis and publication. No personally identifying information will be included in any reports or publications.
If you would like additional information about your results, please contact us. We will provide this information to you individually and confidentially.
How does a cognitive neuroscientist come to work in the Space Station program?
The International Space Station is a unique laboratory orbiting the Earth, where scientists study a wide range of topics - including how spaceflight affects brain structure, function, and cognitive processes. NASA brings together experts from many fields of science and engineering, and it is this diverse mix of talents and backgrounds that makes the agency a leader in space research.
Coming from a multidisciplinary background has allowed me to stay open-minded and explore new areas of research. I am continually fascinated by the breadth and variety of scientific topics and discoveries. This is why I believe it is important to connect multiple fields -such as language, cognition, and spaceflight- to uncover insights that can advance both space missions and life on Earth.
Neurolingo Space is incorporated as a nonprofit by the Texas Secretary of State.