When the Earth is too far away

In space medicine, there is a concept known as the "Earth-out-of-view phenomenon". Astronauts in orbit on the ISS don't suffer from it because Earth is close and clearly visible in detail.

However, during flights to the Moon, certain psychological problems begin to emerge. These include depression with anxiety, feelings of loneliness and isolation, decreased motivation, irritability and emotional instability, and loss of concentration.

This is associated with various reasons:

  1. Loss of visual contact with Earth when it becomes too small and distant. This leads to a loss of reference point and sense of safety.
  2. Disconnection from the familiar environment, intensified by the impossibility of quick return in an emergency situation.
  3. It becomes psychologically more difficult to perceive the reality of Earth. A person feels like a small part of infinite space, which triggers existential fears.
  4. There also arise reflections on life and the fragility of human existence.