Behind the Scenes: Training: "NEEMO 6
The NEEMO 6 crewmembers will begin their mission in the Aqaurius habitat in the Florida Keys on July 12. They will ascend to the surface from the coral reef ending their underwater stay on July 21. During this period the crew will study their underwater surroundings, engage in science on the human body, evaluate future equipment for the Space Station and prepare for living and working in space."

snip - SEE LINKS AT WEB SITE FOR WEBCAST - LRK -

Mission Objectives

NEEMO 6 objectives include support for NASA's new Vision for Space Exploration. The objectives also seek to simulate International Space Station (ISS) activities as future Expedition crews train for their stint onboard the orbiting platform.

The NEEMO 6 crew will practice long-duration space habitation in an underwater facility known as Aquarius off the coast of Key Largo, Fla. The Aquarius is similar in size to the Zvezda Service Module, which is the living quarters for the Space Station. As the Station grows in size and complexity, new equipment proposed for the ISS will require engineering evaluations. NEEMO 6 will conduct some of these evaluations. Attention will be given to anti-microbial and wireless tracking technologies as well as exercise equipment. Crewmembers will also exit the Aqaurius on diving excursions simulating spacewalks and build underwater structures analogous to ISS assembly activities.

Scientific research will be performed on the human body in anticipation of the body's response to microgravity. Living in microgravity for days or months can cause a number of physiological, psychological and behavioral changes, both during flight and after landing. Crewmembers will also study the coral reef surrounding their habitat in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.