THE NEUROSCIENCE OF GRAVITY
GRAVITY IS SO FUNDAMENTAL TO LIFE ON EARTH THAT WE RARELY NOTICE IT - UNTIL IT CHANGES.
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Every living system on this planet evolved under a constant 1g pull. Deep within the inner ear, vestibular otoliths act as natural accelerometers, silently tracking gravity to help the brain navigate space and shape our thoughts. A system so ancient and so reliable that the brain simply takes it for granted.
Until it isn't there.
What happens when gravity is no longer what the brain expects?
Is it hardwired for Earth or capable of adapting to weightlessness?
CAN THE HUMAN BRAIN TRULY FUNCTION BEYOND OUR HOME PLANET?
THAT IS WHAT WE SET OUT TO DISCOVER.
RESEARCH
Inquiry. Insight. Impact.
​Research Overview
At the core of our work is a fundamental question: how do gravitational signals shape human cognition?
For decades, the vestibular system was considered relevant only to low-level reflexes: balance, posture and gaze stability. Our research has challenged that view, demonstrating that vestibular signals play a crucial role across a surprisingly broad range of functions, from sensorimotor control to the highest levels of conscious awareness.
That insight drives our work in space. By studying how the brain responds to non-terrestrial gravities, we aim to understand - and ultimately predict - how cognition and performance change during long-duration spaceflight.
Our Approach
Our approach is integrative and interdisciplinary, drawing on cognitive neuroscience, vestibular physiology, computational modelling, and space science. Combining behavioural paradigms with neuroimaging, including EEG and fMRI, we map the neural mechanisms through which gravity shapes human experience.
Funding and Support
Our research is made possible through the support of leading international institutions. Our work is currently funded by project grants from the British Academy, the Royal Society, the Leverhulme Trust, the Meniere's Society, the BIAL Foundation, and UKRI. Our space-focused initiatives are supported by the European Space Agency (ESA).
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
This is your brain on space:
how gravity influences your mental abilities
A BBC Science Focus article featuring our research.
The next small step
A New Scientist commentary highlighting the importance of understanding human psychology and cognition for the success of space exploration.
What does art mean outside planet Earth?
Our artistic and scientific project, The Zero-Gravity Band, aims to reflect and theorize on how artistic production and aesthetic perception are influenced by gravity.