It was a beautiful day when Dr. Sian [sy-AN] Proctor came back from Mars. For the first time in four months, she and the five other crew members could go outside without spacesuits. Sian squinted in the sun and felt the wind on her face. How amazing to finally be home!
Except Sian and the rest of the crew never actually left Earth. That’s because they are analog astronauts. Their Mars mission was a simulation—something made to look and feel like something else. In this case, Sian’s crew lived in Hawaii. Scientists chose the location because it has land that is similar to Mars.
While there, Sian slept inside a small white dome. She took two-minute showers to save water. And she couldn’t call or text her family. We talked to Sian about why her job is important.
What is the purpose of analog astronauts like you?
Basically, we’re testing space missions here on Earth. We’re learning how to make food in space. We’re seeing how people get along when they’re stuck together for a long time. We test things like spacesuits and robots to make sure they will actually work in space.
Who can become an analog astronaut?
Anyone who loves space! Some are scientists, like me. Others are artists, teachers, and doctors. An analog astronaut’s goal is to help humans prepare to start new communities on the moon or on Mars. In those communities, we’ll need all types of people.
What is the most surprising thing you have learned in your job?
Many of the things we have to do to survive in space are good lessons for living on Earth too. We have to save water and electricity. We also have to be really careful with our food and not waste anything.
What traits make someone a good analog astronaut?
Teamwork is the most important thing! You also have to be calm and deal with stress well.
What would you say to kids who want to be astronauts?
You can be an analog astronaut right at home. You can buy freeze-dried foods and learn to cook like an astronaut. I even have a YouTube series called Meals for Mars to get you started!