Isolation and quarantine are states that until now were not significant for society as a whole. However, the situation has changed and we are sometimes forced to remain in isolation for epidemiological reasons. How does this affect our brain? What effects does it have? These are new questions - hence the need to find answers. Scientists working at the simulated space base in Pila are coming to the rescue, where research into how the nervous system reacts while in isolation is planned.
The current epidemiological situation in Poland and around the world presents each of us with new challenges and requires us to adapt to rules that have not yet been the norm for society. In a situation where we come into direct contact with the threat of COVID-19 infection, we are obliged to undergo quarantine, i.e. home isolation.
Quarantine
The current regulations state that the quarantine period, in the absence of symptoms, is 10 days. If symptoms appear, such a person is required to remain in isolation for a period of no less than 13 days after the onset of symptoms, but the total quarantine time is determined by the patient's health status and the decision of the PC doctor, who may extend the isolation time [1].
Research
The current situation has inspired Polish researchers at the Lunares habitat (Piła) to investigate the psychological and neurological aspects of being in quarantine.
The habitat itself (located at the Piła airport) is constructed in the shape of a space base simulator with a research laboratory available. The conditions there are similar to those on the Moon or Mars. Scientists have decided to exploit the potential of this site for COVID-19 by conducting research on human behaviour in situations and conditions of solitude and isolation from the surrounding world [2].
The psychological research conducted in the habitat is directed at the factors that affect the crew's interactions during a space mission, using techniques and methods that also go beyond the spaceflight sector. The period of the foreseen study was from November 2020 to March 2021. During the five two-week simulations, the scientists were to study the inhabitants' behaviour during isolation by examining brain structures. Thus, the information obtained is intended to show the human capacity to adapt to conditions of isolation or confinement. The researchers relate such conditions to the current situation, when we are voluntarily - and sometimes compulsorily - obliged to remain isolated for a certain period of time.
Very significant for the entire study are the modern imaging techniques of the nervous system used. It is through these that it will be possible to infer links with psychophysical aspects of the human body [3].