Basic Environmental Problems of Man in Space

The idea ofthisInternational Symposium on Basic Environmental Prob- lems of Man in Space came about two years ago from Professor von Klfrmlfn, President of the International Academy of Astronautics, and Dr. Malina, permanent representative of the International Astronautical Federation to Unesco. They soon talked other people into their plans, and a feeling diffused far and wide that such a symposium would serve to stimulate educational and scientific activity and progress, to encourage international cooperation in this particular problern area and to further advancement of research in the basic aspects of the many problems at hand. It was then learned with great satisfaction that Unesco became attracted by the objectives of the symposium, which are in harmony with the principal features of this organisation 1 s program in the natural scienc- es. Within the proposed budget allocations to various projects for 1961/ 62 Unesco decided to assist the International Astronautical Federation in preparing a Study Group to determlne the desirability and feasibility of holding a symposium on the problems of man in space.
The objectives of the present symposium, as based upon the recom- mendations made by the Study Group during a meeting at Unesco at the end of November last year, are to discuss problems belonging to three different subjects, namely ecophysiology, psychophysiology, and the acquisition, analysis and control of physiological and psychological data. The preparations for the symposium have required a great expenditure of time, money and effort on the part of many people, to whom we express our gratitude. Speaking on behalf of the Organizing Committee, I would like to pay special tribute to that major part of the total effort that has been expended by the 31 speakers in the prepara tion of their papers. From the tremendous volume of first-class experimental work that is to be presented during the next five days, it is obvious that the space age is enlisting the be·st efforts of scientists from all countries and disciplines. I am certain that the audience will greatly appreciate the opportunity to attend this distinguished gathering of experts. It is a pleasure for me personally to see so many old friends here and a good many new ones.