How astronauts train for space by exploring deep Italian caves

Andreas on CAVES photography · 3:19 · Video: European Space Agency, ESA · Watch at the source

In short: This video diary follows astronaut Andreas Mogensen as he navigates the Sa Grutta cave system. It offers a rare look at the specialized photography and teamwork required during intense underground training simulations.

The CAVES program, managed by the European Astronaut Centre, uses the subterranean landscapes of Sardinia, Italy, to mimic the challenges of spaceflight. Participants, ranging from rookies to seasoned International Space Station astronauts, use these dark environments to refine essential mission skills like leadership, decision-making, and collective problem-solving.

Beyond physical navigation, the training involves performing scientific experiments and documenting activities in extreme conditions. This specific footage captures the technical effort involved in documenting these missions, a task that appears much simpler than it actually is.

Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.

Sources

To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/space-andreas-on-caves-photography.

How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?

Related

Finding something worth knowing…