The aim of the activity is the development of an integrated system for countermeasures in the neuro-sensory domain including the use of advanced bio-feedback system integrating physiological signals into the loop.

After prolonged interplanetary trips, the human neuron-muscular-skeletal system suffers severe deconditioning and impairment of the corresponding functions. In particular, the loss of neuron-sensory control and motor skills can be problematic and shall be counteracted efficiently. Integrated countermeasure systems shall be developed to allow astronauts being fit as soon as possible after landing (be it on earth or at their destination, e.g. Moon/Mars). Two parallel activities ( ESA Contracts 20766 and 20767) have been started to develop and test technology concepts for integrated countermeasure systems to counteract the above-mentioned deleterious effects of prolonged microgravity exposure. Building on them, the present activity is aimed at pursuing the initial development work as follows: A)Developing an integrated system based on the outcomes of the previous activities; B) Develop integrated biofeedback systems, e.g. integration of human physiological responses into the biofeedback loops, aimed at optimising the musculo-tendinous responses; C) Assess, Develop and integrate into the Integrated Countermeasure Stimulators new non-electromechanical actuators for the countermeasure systems, e.g. electro-active polymers, distributed somato-sensory stimulators, usage of shape memory allow materials? : D)Characterize and when possible evaluate the above-developed technologies on human beings.The next step (out of the present activity) should be to develop a TRL6 integrated system.The present activity can in addition have applications in the medical field, to rehabilitate or prevent the impairment of the functions controlling the human voluntary movements or balance (elderly, post-stroke rehabilitation ?)