Future flights, involving crews away for long periods of time, will further complicate communication questions. Because of the importance of such issues to the success of future space missions, this chapter focuses specifically on the process and effects of communication in extended spaceflight. Space missions involve communication at several levels, the precise number of which depends on such factors as the size and complexity of the mission and the availability of communication media. Communication in space as elsewhere serves both task and socioemotional functions. In terms of task functions, both hierarchical and lateral communication are necessary to organize and coordinate crewmembers in pursuit of mission goals.
Lateral communication is necessary for the general coordination and implementation of activity.
In addition to its use for casual enjoyment, communication is a prerequisite for social recognition and censure, both of which have been shown to be potent controllers of human behavior.