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This paper examines the effect of the complexity of the post-detection response demands on subsequent monitoring performance at two rates of target presentation. Three conditions requiring differentially complex post-detection responses were compared with a baseline condition in which no post-detection demands were made (save the simple detection-indicating response). The results indicated that two of the three complex conditions were accompanied by significantly less decrement in performance than that found in the baseline condition. The third was not significantly different from the baseline condition. "Arousal theory" could account for the results on the basis that there exists an optimal level of cortical arousal stemming from sensory variation provided by a task. If this hypothetical level is not reached or exceeded, a decrement in performance is to be expected. No clear answer was provided regarding an interaction between effects attributable to signal rate with effects attributable to response complexity.

Two experiments are reported in which the effects of correct and incorrect feedback on ability to count rapidly-produced auditory stimuli were studied. "Error in counting was found to be directly related to the number of stimuli to be counted. Correct knowledge of results contributed to better performance; misinformation contributed to disruption of counting ability; and both effects were evident over time in the absence of all feedback.

The relative merits of presenting each of two command signals (δe, the elevator deflection angle, and γ, the aircraft flight-vector angle) on a compensatory display for manual control of a simulated aircraft on a terrain-following mission were examined. It was found that imposing additional work loads on the pilot led to a greater decrement in tracking performance with the γ command than with the δe command. Further, the work load task itself was performed with greater proficiency while tracking with the δe command. The apparent merits of the δe command warrant further investigation.

This report reviews and evaluates the research and observations pertaining to the effects upon human vision of unusual gravitational force, which will be encountered in space flight operations. Increased g and null gravity are the major topics of discussion. Within each topic the gross and qualitative changes in vision are discussed first. Quantitative and analytic studies are next reviewed, ranging from the application of the threshold methods of psychophysics to the performance of flying tasks such as dial reading. Operational experience of the astronauts is included. Techniques for ameliorating the undesirable effects of acceleration and null gravity are summarized.