Space Dragon is a framework designed to reduce the psychological and behavioural risks faced on exploration missions to the Moon and Mars.The framework is comprised of activities and protocols which combine techniques from the arts, clinical psychology and mindfulness. These methods utilise the mind and body relationship with a neuro-informed approach, stimulating left- and right-brian activity to allow for fuller cognitive responses. The activities act as a conduit for the crew to share information about their physiological and psychological state and needs. Space Dragons assists in maintaining a psychologically safe environment with the aim of increasing productivity of scientific enquiry whilst maintaining psychological and physical well-being.
Space Dragons Framework is based on Tamara Russel’s acclaimed Dragon Way to Mental Wealth programme - a neuroscience informed emotional intelligence system being used in schools, corporate, elite athletic and boardroom settings. It provides permission and language for leaders to engage with the emotional layer of processes that underpins the decision making. The approach is preventative. Feral Events director Aoife van Linden Tol collaborated with Dr. Tamara Russel to create a bespoke program for the space environment.
An experiment to test the method was conducted during the EMMPOL V analog Moon mission at the Analog Astronaut Training centre in Poland with very promising results. Feral director, Aoife van Linden Tol, delivered the program as Commander of the mission leading five other analog astronauts in complete isolation for one week. The results were analysed and presented at the 73rd International Astronautical Congress.