Analog Astronauts
What do volcanoes, underwater labs, and Arctic outposts all have in common? They are all places where Analog Astronauts go to prepare for space missions.
Analog Astronaut training is training for space without leaving Earth. Analog Astronauts are real people who train, live, and conduct experiments in Earth-based environments similar to space. These special locations are called analogs because they simulate the conditions of spacecraft, the Moon, Mars, and deep space. Analog missions help space agencies, scientists, engineers, and explorers answer one essential question: "What would happen if this were a real mission?"
What do Analog Astronauts do?
Practice spacewalks, often in full spacesuits.
Live in isolation, just like astronauts on long space journeys.
Conduct science and engineering experiments.
Work as a crew, solving problems together.
Train for emergencies like equipment failure or communication loss.
Eat shelf-stable food, use limited water, and track every supply.
Analog missions can last from a single day to over a year. Some take place indoors in purpose-built habitats. Others unfold deep in the wilderness: lava tubes, underwater reefs, ice-covered mountains, and remote natural settings like those surrounding SaxaVord Spaceport in Shetland, Scotland.
What makes an analog mission special is not just the location. It is the mindset. No phones. No outside help. No shortcuts. Just you, your crew, and your mission.
Why do analog missions matter?
Before humans build outposts on the Moon and in Local Space, we will need hundreds of analog missions. That means there is a role for future scientists, artists, engineers, doctors, chefs, plumbers, construction teams, and Kid Astronauts to practice now. For anyone who wants to learn how to solve problems alongside a crew, an analog mission can be the first step toward a real one.
Famous Analog Astronauts
Dr. Sian Proctor An analog astronaut on NASA's first HI-SEAS mission, Dr. Proctor later flew to space on Inspiration4, a three-day orbital mission. Her analog work focused on Mars simulation, sustainability, and team dynamics. She is a living example of the pipeline from analog training to actual orbit.
Dr. Michaela Musilova An astrobiologist and veteran analog mission commander, Dr. Musilova has led more than 30 simulated missions to the Moon and Mars at HI-SEAS and other habitats worldwide. She is known as much for her dedication to training the next generation as for her own extraordinary record.
Dr. Mason Robbins A human factors expert, EVA spacesuit designer, and space STEM educator, Dr. Robbins trains in environments that simulate the Moon and Mars, working hands-on with real space gear including spacesuits, airlocks, and life support systems. He brings both the science and the physicality of spaceflight into his work in equal measure.