Preventing the Risks of Inadequate Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) Systems in Manned Spacecraft Missions: Toward an International Public Policy Framework Proposal

Abstract

This scientific research paper analyzes the link between space technology and space law through specifically designed Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) systems applied in manned spacecraft missions, notably by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The risk of inadequate HCI systems may lead to a wide range of undesired consequences, including risks of error or failure of mission objectives, wrongly displayed information, unavailable data and confusion of the data presented, this potentially putting astronauts aboard the spacecraft in life-threatening circumstanced within their extraterrestrial working environment. Consequently, the blame is put on the lack of appropriate policies addressing the regulation of space-related HCI systems. Hence, an international public policy framework is proposed in order to ultimately ensure astronauts’ safety in space exploration, as well as minimizing the risk of space-related accidents occurring during manned spacecraft missions.

Keywords

• space law
• hci
• space technology
• public policy
• international regulation