Scientists return after a year in Mars simulation experiment

After a year, four researchers in the United States ended on Saturday an experiment that simulated life on Mars. For high applause, the four volunteer NASA built Mars Dune Alpha, where they had spent the last 378 days completely isolated from the outside world. The 160 -square -foot structure of the Houston Johnson Space Center is to resemble the conditions on the red planet. The habitat is a 3D printed plant with a bedroom, a fitness center, to public areas and to cultivate a vertical farm. The structure also has an outdoor area separated by an airlock. Filled with red sand, this is the room where the team dons their suits and goes on a "journey to Mars."

What did the researchers do? Anca Selariu, Ross Brockwell, Nathan Jones and team manager Kelly Haston spent last year growing vegetables, implementing "Marts" and acting according to what NASA calls "additional stress factors". They included delay in communication with "land", including their families; insulation; And inclusion.

When they left the habitat on Saturday, four volunteers were visible emotionally. "We can do these things together," said Bildwell. He added: "We can use our curiosity and purpose to achieve peace and prosperity, unlocking knowledge and joy for everyone, everywhere on the planet."

What is the purpose of the mission? The challenge is the first crew in the analog (Chapea) series. Its purpose is to help NASA prepare to send people back for a month and one day to send people back to Mars. Julie Kramere, director of NASA Engineering, said the project "gives us the opportunity to understand all this main information about these complex systems that will make Mars go to Mars and safer."