Mars Medics Analog Astronaut Mission during austere I.C.E (Isolated and Confinement Environment) - A Nepal Scenario

摘要

This Mars analogue simulation mission by Mars Academy USA (MAU) was conducted as part of their mid fidelity trials in austere environments under Project NEAME (Nepal, Everest, Africa, Americas, Arctic, Antarctica Mars Medics Expeditions), the aim being to learn, develop and help prepare for future planetary missions. An international crew of six was selected after extensive physical and mental status review. Isolation and confinement were simulated, with internal and external projects selected to test and further develop current MAU protocols. Isolation and confinement in a high-altitude environment simulate some of the harsh environmental factors on the Martian surface. The austere environment helps to understand close quarter human dynamics; individual and crew experiences of challenging scenarios and planned team efforts. Several psychological panels were administered to study human factors along with measurement of physiological parameters. Simulated medical emergencies, evacuation and treatment of casualties in a space clinic were performed to assess the existing protocols. Considering the rarity of planned simulation missions at high altitude, the collected data would provide considerable insight into some aspects of life on simulated Martian environment. Further to this, the simulation also provided essential experience to crew members of an isolated, confined and extreme environment (ICE), in preparation towards planned high fidelity missions by Mars Academy USA in the future.