Outer space generates cognitive, physiological, psychological, and psychosocial effects on astronauts, impacting their emotions, behavior, performance, and socialization on both short and long missions. Technological, physiological, pharmacological, and psychological strategies have been developed to counteract these effects.

This research, through a literature review, explores how cognitive interventions focused on a sense of belonging can be a simple, cost-effective, and personalized option to mitigate the effects of deep space and promote astronauts' mental health.

The results show that a sense of belonging acts as a psychosocial buffer against the chronic stress, loneliness, cognitive impairment, and emotional exhaustion characteristic of extreme environments. On short missions, actions such as incorporating meaningful cultural elements, personalizing living spaces, and performing symbolic group rituals increase the sense of belonging and overall well-being, reducing stress, improving mood, and strengthening group cohesion. On long missions, similar benefits are observed through collective projects with shared meaning, structured interaction with Earth, and the integration of natural elements and customizable spaces into the habitat.

Thus, fostering a sense of belonging stands out as a practical, cost-effective, and adaptable countermeasure that complements existing technological and biomedical approaches. By addressing the human need for connection, identity, and shared meaning, these interventions offer a comprehensive pathway to mitigate psychosocial and cognitive challenges, support mental health, and improve mission performance, positioning belonging as a key factor for sustainable human space exploration.