acoustic team also manages predictions for flight readiness, in-orbit measurements, and
maintains a database of measurements, and distributes reports and assessments of the data. It
is important that the ISS noise be in compliance with current specifications. This is important to
ensure acceptable crew communications, health, and well-being. Data collected from the space
shuttle and Mir programs indicate that levels at or close to 70 dBA should be considered ISS
daily exposure limits. These limits are justified in view of crew experience, especially
considering the variability in crew member physiological and psychological response to noise
(Goodman 2003).
ISS Acoustics develops measures to safeguard the crew members’ hearing, ensures there are
work-arounds for excessively noisy areas or mission events, and provides for a secure,
productive, and comfortable noise environment. This is aided by module noise monitoring,
noise abatement, and restricting crew noise exposure during a mission (Pilkinton 2003).
PUBLICATION(S)
Allen CS, Denham SA. International Space Station acoustics - A status report. 41st International
Conference on Environmental Systems, Portland, OR; July 17, 2011.
Limardo JG, Allen CS. Analysis of noise exposure measurements acquired onboard the
International Space Station. 41st International Conference on Environmental Systems, Portland,
OR; July 17, 2011
Goodman JR. International Space Station Acoustics. Noise Conference, Cleveland, OH; 2003.
Pilkinton GD. ISS acoustics mission support. Noise Conference, Cleveland, OH; 2003.
This investigation is ongoing and additional results are pending publication.