Testing life on Mars...on Earth

Six volunteer "analog astronauts" are taking part in a three-week simulation of life on Mars in southern Oman. The mission hopes to evaluate how humans cope with the psychological strain of isolation. They will also carry out an array of experiments like the one seen here. The two scientists are testing a geo-radar built to map Mars by dragging it across the sand.

Joao Lousada, a flight controller for the International Space Station, tests out an experimental space suit called Aouda. The suit weighs 50 kilograms (110 pounds) and takes hours to get into. However, once on, it helps the wearer breathe, eat, communicate, and work by displaying maps and sensor data. The blue foam in the helmet is there to wipe off your nose and mouth.

The six participants will spend the next three weeks in this giant, 2.4 ton inflated habitat. The terrain surrounding the base was specially selected to resemble Mars' rocky and sandy surface. The site in Oman's section of the Dhofar Desert can reach up to 125 degrees Fahrenheit (51 Celsius).

With the aid of their all-terrain vehicles, the will carry out a total 16 experiments that were proposed by scientists around the world. The tasks include testing a quick "tumbleweed" robot rover, growing plants in an inflatable greenhouse and using a 3D printer to create spare parts for machines.

The simulation is being carried out by the Austrian Space Forum, a collective of volunteers with private sponsers. People from 20 countries are working together on the mission — something the simulation participants want to emphasize. "We should never forget that as we explore our own planet and the solar system we have to do it responsibly and ethically," mission participant Kartik Kumar said.