Value diversity and crew relationships during a simulated space flight to Mars

Long-duration space missions present psychological challenges in terms of maintenance of motivation and team cohesion This study aimed to examine alterations in personal values, defined as broad motivational goals, among crew members (n=6) participating in a 520 days simulated mission to Mars, and further to explore the implications of value diversity for the compatibility between crew members. The Portrait of Crew Values Questionnaire was administered monthly to assess changes in personal values and tension attributed to value disparities. Individual interviews were performed post-mission. All subjects completed the mission. Emphasis on tradition, benevolence, and stimulation decreased whereas emphasis on self-direction increased over the confinement period. More intra-crew tension was attributed to differences in benevolence over time. In aggregate, these changes suggest that the crew became less cohesive over time. Crew members attempted to counteract negative effects of monotony by social events and work involvement. However, several subjects reported heightened perceptual sensitivity, low mood, and lack of energy in the last quarter. •The study was conducted during a space simulation study lasting for 520 days.•Changes in personal values and implications of value diversity were examined.•Emphasis on tradition, benevolence, and stimulation decreased over time.•More intra-crew tension was attributed to differences in benevolence over time.•Perceptual sensitivity, low mood, and lack of energy were reported towards the end.