NASA's Dr. Erin Flynn-Evans, lead of the
Fatigue Countermeasures Laboratory at
NASA Ames Research Center, and Dr. Rachel Jansen were interviewed by the Washington Post in a May 5, 2025 article titled "How to Get a Good Night’s Rest, According to NASA Sleep Scientists". In the article, the NASA sleep experts discuss the many questions and unusual circumstances that surround sleep during a space mission.
Astronauts and Mission Specialists face innumerable challenges in the harsh environments of space. They are expected to conduct complex scientific experiments, complete maintenance work, and engage in public affairs activities, while also juggling sleep, exercise and free time. Such a demanding schedule would be a challenge on Earth, made exponentially more difficult by the conditions introduced in space. High levels of radiation, extreme temperatures, microgravity and the lack of traditional day/night patterns all work to negatively affect the health and performance of humans in space.
In order to help mitigate these negative impacts, and enhance performance during a mission, it is critical for astronauts to maintain healthy sleep habits. Some countermeasures include controlling the light levels in a vessel, maintaining a comfortable ambient temperature and controlling the noise levels. As Dr. Jansen states, "Because the space station has been up for over 20 years, we’ve been able to add private crew quarters, which have more temperature controls, and reduce light and noise". As NASA looks to the travel deeper into space, sleep quality will certainly be a critical factor in mission success.
To learn more about sleep in space and to view the full article, please visit
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2025/05/05/nasa-astronauts-return-iss-sleeping/.
