Student Article
Six Out-of-This-World Experiments Recreating Space on Earth
Simulate (verb): To recreate or imitate real conditions in a controlled environment.
Confinement (noun): The state of being kept in a small or restricted space.
Subsurface (adjective): Below the surface of the ground or another material.
Adaptability (noun): The ability to adjust to new or changing conditions.
Before astronauts embark on missions to Mars, they must train in environments that replicate the physical and mental challenges of space. Around the world, scientists have created experimental programs to simulate space conditions and test essential skills.
HI-SEAS, Big Island, Hawaii, USA
The HI-SEAS habitat in Hawaii replicates the isolation and confinement of a Mars mission. Situated on the rocky slopes of Mauna Loa, participants spend months in a dome, only venturing outside in spacesuits. Communication with "Mission Control" is delayed by 20 minutes, simulating the time lag from Mars to Earth.
NEEMO, Key Largo, Florida, USA
In Florida, NASA’s NEEMO (Extreme Environment Mission Operations) project trains astronauts underwater. The team lives in the Aquarius habitat, 62 feet (19 meters) below the surface. The low-gravity underwater conditions simulate the physical challenges of spacewalks, while the tight living quarters mirror the confined conditions of a spacecraft.
C-Space Project, Gobi Desert, China
China’s C-Space Project in the Gobi Desert offers a Mars-like environment with nine interconnected modules, including mock airlocks and control rooms. Although currently open to tourists and students, the facility may soon become an official astronaut training site.
Pangaea-X, Lanzarote, Canary Islands
In Lanzarote, Spain, the Pangaea-X project teaches astronauts geology skills. The island’s volcanic terrain mimics the rocky landscapes of Mars and the Moon. Astronauts practice identifying and collecting samples, and use electronic field books to communicate their findings.
ARADS, Atacama Desert, Chile
NASA’s ARADS project takes place in the Atacama Desert, Chile, one of Earth’s driest places. The team uses the K-REX2 rover, equipped with a smart drill, to search for subsurface life — similar to what astronauts will do on Mars.
CAVES project, Sardinia, Italy
Finally, the CAVES project in Sardinia, Italy, puts astronauts to the test. They spend six days living in total darkness, navigating caves with limited resources. The experience strengthens their teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving skills — vital for surviving the harsh conditions of space.
© Rob Banino / Our Media
Simulate (verb): To recreate or imitate real conditions in a controlled environment.
Confinement (noun): The state of being kept in a small or restricted space.
Subsurface (adjective): Below the surface of the ground or another material.
Adaptability (noun): The ability to adjust to new or changing conditions.