3.11 Sleep and Circadian Rhythms

Purpose

The Sleep and Circadian Rhythms course examines the biological mechanisms that regulate sleep, alertness, and performance, with particular focus on disruptions caused by shift work, night flights, and time-zone changes. Learners gain insight into how circadian misalignment affects cognitive function, decision-making, fatigue, and safety, and are introduced to evidence-based strategies for optimizing sleep and maintaining operational readiness in aeromedical missions.