Scientists at the National Space Biomedical Research Institute (NSBRI) are developing a training technique to help astronauts adapt quickly to a new gravity environment and overcome balance disturbances.

The team, led by Dr Jacob Bloomberg, is working on a project to develop an adaptability training system, a treadmill mounted on a base that can move in different directions to simulate balance disturbances.

A projection screen in front of the treadmill displays an image of a room or hallway that moves as the user walks.

By tilting the treadmill in one direction, disturbances are simulated, as the image is tilted in another direction.

Scientists are also working to integrate a version of the system into the treadmill on a spacecraft that will allow astronauts to perform adaptability training on long missions, while at the same time saving space and power.