On 10 March 2024, the AMADEE-24 Mars simulation of the Austrian Space Forum (OeWF) was launched in the breathtaking, barren landscapes of Armenia. Over 200 scientists from 26 countries were involved with their equipment, robotic vehicles and experiments. The choice of location for the simulation was not a random decision, as the volcanic landscapes and mineralogical composition of the Ararat region resemble the surface of Mars in many aspects. One year later, we now look back on this remarkable mission, which is not only considered one of the most challenging in the long tradition of Mars simulations by the OeWF, but also another milestone in research into the exploration of the Red Planet.

Our AMADEE-24 teams faced numerous challenges, with the conditions on site characterised by capricious weather, technical breakdowns and logistical difficulties. The simulated Mars conditions were intended to enable the participants to better understand the requirements that future Mars missions will entail. The teams on site in Armenia and at the Mission Support Centre (MSC) in Vienna had to adapt to the conditions of each day while generating scientific data and conducting the 14 experiments from the fields of geosciences, robotics, engineering, human sciences and biotechnology.

Scientific achievements

The experiments of the AMADEE-24 mission included the GEOS experiment, which involved geological studies at the analogue site ‘on Mars’ and the development of new technologies for analysing soil samples. The data collected could be crucial in determining how future planetary missions are organised.

Another important aspect of the AMADEE-24 mission was the study of human factors in an isolated environment. The psychological and social dynamics that occurred during the simulation were documented in detail to understand the effects of isolation and stress on (analog) astronauts and supporting teams. These findings are of crucial importance for the planning of future astronautical missions to Mars and the Moon.

Scientists around the world participate in our analog research

In addition to the scientific data from the AMADEE programme, the OeWF Mission Science Data Archive contains extensive data from our past research missions. This unique treasure trove of data is open to all researchers worldwide who wish to use it to derive and process relevant research topics and answer scientific questions.

Teamwork and international collaboration

Scientists, support teams and analog astronauts from different countries worked hand in hand to overcome the challenges and make the mission a success. This teamwork is an excellent example of the importance of global cooperation in space research. The dedication of our wonderful volunteer members, whether they were in the field in Armenia or at the MSC in Vienna, the enthusiasm of the experiment teams involved and the tireless, cheerful and energetic efforts of the members of the Armenian Space Forum contributed significantly to the realisation of our AMADEE-24 mission.

A big THANK YOU to everyone involved, without you and your tireless efforts AMADEE-24 would not have been possible!

More Information about our AMADEE-24 Mars simulation: https://oewf.org/en/amadee-24/

Further insights from the blog posts on the science workshop experiments: https://oewf.org/en/topics/research-projects/expeditions-simulations/amadee-24/

Meet all our analog astronauts: https://oewf.org/en/about-the-oewf/oewf-analog-astronauts/

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