Aeroflot’s Aerospace Research: From Pilot Fatigue to UFO Phenomena

The following memo was first released in 1978 by the CIA, but much of it was redacted. In January of 2019, The Black Vault filed a Mandatory Declassification Review (MDR) request to get the document further declassified, and many of the redactions were lifted.

The final response was sent in November of 2021, and the document is available below.

Key points from the memo include:

1. Aeroflot’s Medical Research: Aeroflot officials were involved in aerospace medical research, focusing on crewmember performance, physical conditioning, and the development of devices to test pilot biological functioning and motor response ability.
2. Cosmic Ray Particles: Soviet radiation biologist Dr. Inal Georgiyevich Akoyev explained the phenomenon of cosmic ray particles (phosphenes) causing Aeroflot pilots to “see” flashes of light during night flying, similar to what US astronauts experienced.
3. Crewmember Fatigue: Aeroflot addressed crewmember fatigue through physical conditioning, thorough pre-flight testing, and the use of prophylactoriums – facilities at airports designed to provide rest and relaxation for crewmembers.
4. Work Cycle Management: The Soviet work cycles were structured to minimize fatigue, with crewmembers typically having 24 hours of post-flight rest.
5. Drug Use: The use of drugs to combat fatigue was discouraged, with crewmembers instructed to seek medical advice for any health issues.
6. Aircraft Noise Concerns: Aeroflot officials were worried about the high levels of noise generated by their aircraft engines.
7. Radiation Studies: Extensive radiation studies were conducted, with supersonic pilots wearing devices to track their total radiation exposure.
8. Pre-Flight Testing Equipment: Dr. Akutin demonstrated prototype pilot testing equipment designed to automate the pre-flight examination process, measuring various physiological parameters and motor abilities.
9. Celestial Navigation and Night Vision Testing: Due to the lack of navigational aids and vast uninhabited regions, celestial navigation was emphasized, and night vision testing equipment was developed to assess crewmembers’ ability to fly at night.

The memo provides a glimpse into the Soviet Union’s efforts to ensure the safety and efficiency of its aircrew through medical research and technological advancements in the field of aerospace medicine.

Document Archive

1976 CIA Memo on UFOs and Connection To Fatigue During Flight Further Declassified [5 Pages, 1MB]

 

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