Simulating weightlessness on Earth

September 2024

PARSEC co-founders engage in immersive dive training on the seabed of Gran Canaria, simulating the weightlessness of space to prepare future astronauts for the challenges of space exploration.

PARSEC crew training underwater

Co-founders of PARSEC doing dive training in the seabed of Gran Canaria

One of PARSEC's co-founders proudly displays the official PARSEC patch while conducting dive training on the Atlantic Ocean floor in the stunning Canary Islands, highlighting our commitment to innovative astronaut training and preparation for the challenges of space exploration

PARSEC on the Atlantic Ocean floor

One of PARSEC's co-founders shows off the official patch while conducting dive training in the Canary Islands.

PARSEC co-founders in scuba gear hold up a PARSEC keychain underwater, with a sunken toilet visible on the ocean floor, highlighting the unique and sometimes surprising environments encountered during astronaut training exercises

Underwater adventure: Training meets the unexpected

PARSEC co-founders showcase their innovative training approach and team spirit during an underwater dive, featuring an unexpected encounter with a submerged toilet

PARSEC crew training underwater

Co-founders of PARSEC doing dive training in the seabed of Gran Canaria

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PARSEC co-founders Vanesa Gómez, Christian Schmelzer, Laura Thomas, Enrique Guzmán, Alma Rubio, Maciej Szukszto, Roxana Dumitru and Jose Tórtola conducted dive training in the impressive seabed of the Atlantic Ocean off the island of Gran Canaria, testing firsthand the activities, experiences and knowledge with which PARSEC is building its Space Curriculum.

Underwater training is an essential component of astronaut training programs. This unique environment simulates the weightlessness experienced by astronauts in space, providing trainees with invaluable experience maneuvering and working in microgravity-like conditions.

Underwater exercises can prepare future commercial astronauts for the physical demands of spacewalks and other zero-gravity operations. But the underwater training goes beyond simulating weightlessness. It also helps develop critical skills such as spatial awareness in three-dimensional environments, team coordination and communication under challenging conditions, problem-solving in unfamiliar settings, and stress management and adaptability. These skills are essential for the success and safety of future space missions, aligning with PARSEC's commitment to thorough and efficient astronaut preparation.

The underwater training experience in the Canary Islands marks a significant step in PARSEC's journey to revolutionize commercial astronaut training. By combining innovative techniques, industry expertise, and a commitment to accessibility, we are not just preparing individuals for space, we are shaping the future of human space exploration.