What did NASA learn about naps?
What did NASA learn about naps?
Sources:
NASA discovered the significant benefits of strategic napping for astronauts during the 1980s. They found that short naps could greatly enhance alertness and task productivity due to the irregular sleep patterns caused by multiple sunrises and sunsets in orbit. It was noted that naps increased astronaut alertness by 20% and task productivity by almost 50%. This practice was so effective that it led to the establishment of what was known as the "NASA nap culture" among terrestrial employees, emphasizing the use of power naps to boost performance and reduce human error in critical missions 1.
NASA's Power Naps
Matt shares how NASA optimized astronaut performance with strategic napping, leading to a 20% boost in alertness and a 50% increase in task productivity. Discover the origins of "power naps" and how they revolutionized aviation safety through prophylactic napping strategies.
Huberman Lab
Dr. Matt Walker: How to Structure Your Sleep, Use Naps & Time Caffeine | Huberman Lab Guest Series
1