The EMMPOL missions stem from the collaboration between EuroMoonMars and the Analog Astronaut Training Center in Poland. In 2018, AATC established a laboratory to simulate space environment for scientific experiments focused on space biology and medicine. The facility is located in Rzepiennik, Southern Poland. After successfully conducting nine EMMPOL missions, it is now the turn of the EMMPOL10 (9-15 April 2022) and EMMPOL11 (21-27 April 2022).

The aim of these campaigns is to investigate the effects of isolation on the crews, as well as to conduct unique scientific experiments to advance space science. These missions also serve as astronaut training simulations by improving one’s ability to work under stress, control and operate equipment found in the habitat with the end goal of preparing one for the rigours of space travel. The EMMPOL 10-11 campaigns have crews of six analog astronauts, with each crewmember being assigned a specific role based on their expertise and background. During these isolation periods, a series of distinct scientific experiments will take place to investigate envisioned requirements of future space missions. These experiments include comprehensive physiological research related to nutrition, sleep and cryotherapy as well as studies to assess how individuals in a team setting react under pressure using different parameters such as performance, social skills and mental health. Furthermore, the impact of virtual reality on stress levels, metabolism and other physiological parameters including breathing and heart activity will be monitored. Simultaneously, studies focusing on living quarter usage and proxemics will take place. The data collected will serve as basis for certain energy reclamation technologies to be implemented. The use of remote-controlled telescopes from inside this isolated, confined, and artificial environment representative of a space habitat will be evaluated. Lastly, space life support systems (plants, rotifers, and bacteria), in specifically designed 3D printed modules, and colloids will be subjected to simulated microgravity using a Random Positioning Machine, along with cryogenic treatments to study the effects of microgravity and temperature dependant behaviour. To further aid the mission, a dedicated imaging system will be developed and mounted on the RPM. The results obtained during EMMPOL 10 & 11 will further broaden our scientific understanding and the effects of isolation in a space analog habitat.

Together with the Mars Society Belgium, we will have a live outreach event with EMMPOL10 crew from inside the habitat on 12th April at 8pm. The event will be presented in French, Dutch and English and it will be broadcasted on Mars Society Belgium Facebook Official.