ASI SponsorZolesi, ValfredoValfredoZolesi2020-09-172020-09-172003-10-01https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.13025/4456The analysis of the performances of the upper limb is considered very important in view of long-term presence of the humans in weightlessness conditions. This paper outlines the main features, utilization scope and capabilities of Hand Posture Analyzer (HPA), a set of instruments designed and developed by Kayser Italia in the frame of a contract with Italian Space Agency(ASI), to carry out research on the upper limb in micro-gravity conditions during space flights. The upper limb functionality and efficiency holds an even greater importance on orbit than down on earth. Early utilization of HPA on the International Space Station (ISS) will focus on the analysis of reaching, grasping and launch of objects and on the assessment of muscular performance degradation in weightlessness. HPA will be launched to the ISS with the flight 12P scheduled for end of August 2003 and used throughout increments 7 and 8. The selected experimental protocols are presented for the utilization of HPA on ISS. For every protocol specific data analysis can be performed with the presented tools. The results of these studies could be very useful both for increasing the knowledge about the effect of the permanence in the space on human movement and for rehabilitative treatment of upper limb motor disorders on the Earth.conference paperdoi/abs/10.2514/6.2003-6334http://arc.aiaa.org/doi/abs/10.2514/6.2003-633455db13ef6c5e1b7117861fe8