Today's minimal living trend has placed interior design as a secondary, sometimes even a tertiary, priority. More so, if the space in question is one that will be launched out into outer space.
Engineers would, of course, prioritize function over aesthetics, especially that their main focus is the proper functionality of the machines and the safety of the astronauts when they at a million miles from the ground.
However, some scientists are lobbying the idea that spacecraft designers should look into improving the interior design of the astronauts' home away from home.
The main obstacle in providing astronauts with the comfortable space that they deserve for their long missions is the resources needed.
Traversing outer space entails a precise set of calculations that are crucial for the safety of the spacecraft's passengers. This means that for certain machinery and engines, specific limits are established and implemented so that it will work as predicted, to and from the destination.
Any additional weight that the spacecraft has to carry would entail adjustments in the calculation, added costs, and more energy to be used.
For the coming weeks, a workshop intended for astronauts, health professionals, and some design experts will be held for a collective brainstorming to discuss which equipment and design strategies would best serve the upcoming missions while still providing an interior space where the astronauts would feel most "at home" and boost morale. Scientists are suggesting that this move could make interplanetary missions more enjoyable for the astronauts.
Dorit Donoviel, the director for the Translational Research Institute for Space Health, pointed out that spacecraft design has been focused on the functional side since the start. Donoviel later added that there has not been any attention given to the behavioral effects of the interiors or the human side when designing spacecraft.
Ted Smith, director of the Center for Healthy Air, Water and Soil at the University of Louisville, pointed out that this type of research is difficult to do ethically. Smith later pointed out that there are a lot of unknowns when it comes to psychology and the effects of a degrading setting to a person's behavior.
In 2010, a crew of six participated in a simulated mission to Mars for 520 days in a 755-square-foot room. Towards the end, some have exhibited increased depressive symptoms, others have stopped moving around, and most have abnormal sleep patterns.
Scientists are now looking into integrating some cedar scents and bright colors to the interior of the spacecraft's cabin. This could potentially combat the blues and give a feeling of being surrounded by other humans.
