The past OeWF Mars analog missions included contributions from NASA research teams – now, this connection was stepped up: NASA Chief Technologist for the Solar System Exploration Division, Leonard A. Dudzinski, visited the OeWF spacesuit laboratory in Innsbruck, Austria during an informational visit. The sojourn included a demonstration of the Aouda spacesuit simulator and the new SERENITY suit project.

OeWF Director Gernot Grömer (right) explains the Aouda spacesuit simulator to Leonard Dudzinski

He was also very open to interact with the students at the spacesuitlab and hear about their research projects, also offering insights into current NASA programs and technology roadmaps, including nuclear power systems. One of his main points was that he is very much in favor of international cooperation for exploration programs, which also encompasses inviting more industrial partners on board as well as organizations like the Austrian Space Forum. He stated:

“There is a significant value in the work the OeWF does to contribute to Mars exploration projects”

Leonard Dudziniski (right) talking wiht OeWF Director Gernot Grömer (left), OeWF board Sophie Gruber (2.from left) and students

“Leonard Dudzinski indicated a genuine interest in the lessons learned of the OeWF field missions”,

Sophie Gruber, OeWF Board Member states,

“in particular on the suit technologies he saw, as well as the traverse planning considerations for analog missions. This is something we did not really expect at this level – it was great to hear about his views on solar system exploration and how the Moon and the Lunar Gateway project can be regarded as a stepping stone to Mars.”

from left: Elin Eriksson, Nina Sejkora (OeWF), Paula Dudziniski, Leonard Dudziniski (NASA), Gernot Grömer (OeWF Director), Paulina Eknor, Sophie Gruber (OeWF board), Olivia Haider (OeWF board)

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