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Evaluation of alertness, performance, melatonin and sleep during an extreme single pilot operation

Solar Impulse conducted a single pilot around-the-world flight in a solar airplane. This flight required a single pilot to operate the aircraft continuously for five days while crossing the Pacific and for three days while crossing the Atlantic. We partnered with Solar Impulse to evaluate the effectiveness of an experimental rest schedule for these extreme flights, which allowed the pilot to take several 20-minute naps during the flight. We evaluated the cognitive performance of the pilot, sleep, and alertness. This study has been completed and analysis is underway.

A view of the Solar Impulse wingspan following the five-day Pacific crossing during the around-the-world flight
A view of the Solar Impulse wingspan following the five-day Pacific crossing during the around-the-world flight

Dr. Flynn-Evans views the Solar Impulse aircraft during the around-the-world flight
Dr. Flynn-Evans views the Solar Impulse aircraft during the around-the-world flight
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Curator: Phil So
NASA Official: Erin Flynn-Evans
Last Updated: August 15, 2019