NASA’s Incredible Underwater Moon Simulation Pool: The Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory

The Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory has been transformed by NASA, into a replica of the moon’s surface to train future astronauts.

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A giant 6.2-million-gallon pool, the lab measures 202 by 102 feet. To experience simulated lunar gravity, astronauts will dive to a depth of 40 feet.

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Since 1992, the lab has trained hundreds of spacewalkers & is now changing to accommodate lunar training.

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A company contracted to build out the moon replica, V2X, is installing sand that mimics the lunar revolt to allow astronauts to traverse through the environment.

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To simulate spacewalks in a strictly monitored environment, the lab will be used efficiently.

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There is a transformation of the lab into a practice zone for moonwalks.

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It’s an early stage of the underwater work, with prototypes of spacesuits & hardware, along with sand & landscape features like elevation.

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Commercial companies are expected to follow, as the Artemis programme on the moon is expanding.

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