A very unusual spectacle, unlike any other which has been seen in the last millions of years, is waiting for future visitors of the Dachstein ice caves in Obertraun, Austria: when artificial light shows the ice formations, also the silver suit of our „ice princess“ can be admired.

On the 15th of August 2012, during an emotional celebration, the space suit simulator Aouda.D of the was given by Austrian Space Forum into the hands of the Upper Austrian Liftholding AG. This idea sparks from spring 2012, when the ice caves were the stage for a field test to simulate a manned landing on Mars.

f.r.: Mag. Egon Höll/Mayor of Obertraun, Alfred Bruckschlögl/Director of the Upper Austrian Liftholding AG, Dr. Gernot Grömer/Austrian Space Forum at the place of the exhibition in King Arthur’s Cathedral

The big time gap between the formation of the caves and the development of the space suit enhances the continuity in science and development. The ongoing exhibition of Aouda.D in the Dachstein caves will also be a sign for the great collaboration with the Upper Austrian Liftholding AG .

Members of the Austrian Space Forum together with Director Alfred Bruckschlögl (blue rainjacket) and Facility Manager Wolfgang Steiner (black rainjacket)

Up to 2000 visitors will be surprised when they spot an up to date exhibit showcasing current space research in the middle of ancient „King Arthur’s Cathedral“. These two extremes next to each other are meant to enhance understanding of both a fascinating past and ambitious plans for the future.

Report and Photos: Austrian Space Forum/Gerhard Grömer

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