This is how to Rescue an Astronaut on the Moon

This is how to rescue an astronaut on the Moon, in the event of an emergency.

NASA astronaut Kjell Lindgren pulls ESA astronaut Pedro Duque to safety during a simulated underwater lunar emergency.  Image credit NASA–M. Reagan

The crew took part in NEEMO 22, the 22nd NASA Extreme Environment Mission Operations mission, consisting of astronauts, technicians and scientists living in the Aquarius underwater habitat off the coast of Florida.

The habitat acts as a makeshift ‘space base’ for the aquanauts to make regular ‘waterwalks’ in full scuba gear and, by adjusting their buoyancy, they can simulate the gravity levels found on the Moon, Mars or asteroids.

The Lunar Evacuation System Assembly allows for quick recovery of a Moonwalker while keeping the limited mobility of a spacesuit in mind.

NASA astronaut Kjell Lindgren pulling the Lunar Evacuation System Assembly to come to ESA astronaut Pedro Duque’s aid in a simulated lunar rescue – underwater.  Credit NASA/ESA–H. Stevenin 

source ESA