The Importance of Analog Planetary Research for Success and Safety of Human and Robotic Space Missions

Abstract

Testing of hardware and training of astronauts in space analog environments have been performed since the beginning of the space age. In the frame of planetary exploration, the so called Analog Planetary Research (APR) can be defined as the study of flight hardware, operational constraints, procedures and planning strategies on Earth in an environment that resembles (partly or fully) the conditions of the targeted planetary body. The findings and lessons learned from APR missions can be analyzed regarding mission concept, risks and constraints and the overall mission efficiency prior to launching a real space mission.