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Astronauts Brave Caves for Space Survival Skills
6 Jan
Summary
- 28 astronauts completed China's first cave-survival training.
- Training simulated extreme conditions with low temperatures and high humidity.
- Astronauts faced psychological challenges like darkness and isolation.
China's first astronaut cave-survival training recently concluded with 28 participants completing the rigorous program. Organized in Chongqing's Wulong district, the nearly month-long exercise involved over 10 activities designed to simulate extreme environments. Astronauts spent six days and five nights in a natural cave, battling temperatures around 8°C and up to 99 percent humidity.
The training focused on enhancing astronauts' risk response, self-reliance, and teamwork in confined, isolated conditions. Participants navigated narrow passages, climbed cliffs, and endured prolonged exposure to cold and dampness, all while confronting psychological hurdles like fears of darkness and sensory deprivation. This was crucial for building mental resilience.
Officials stated the training assessed operational readiness and provided valuable insights for supporting astronaut mental health during space missions. The experience is expected to bolster capabilities for future long-duration space station assignments and lunar exploration, ensuring astronauts are better prepared for the unpredictable challenges of spaceflight.
