Chennai: Curious to know how life will be in Mars? You can buy a travel package now. Tripadvisor is offering a "Mars mission" package prepared by a Spanish interplanetary agency.
Astroland, an interplanetary agency, claims that it has done years of research and development to create “Ares Station” which replicates the hostile conditions of Mars within a specifically selected cave, 60 meters high and 1.5km long in Arredondo, Spain. The station is totally isolated from human contact.
The idea is to learn more about how such a Martian environment will physically impact humans. It will also study the societal impact of living in such a colony . Those who wish to have a “Martian experience”, have to apply for their position on the expedition and pass physical and psychological tests. Special equipment has to be worn and no contact is allowed with the outside world.
The expedition involves spending three days and nights in the confines of Ares Station.
The station has completed the first mission with five “Astrolanders”, who underwent extensive and intensive preparation.
Now the agency is opening its doors to paying guests, with five expeditions held over the coming months.
There is one expedition in September, two in October and two more in November. Trip-Advisor is exclusively offering this expedition to adventure lovers for 6,050 euros or over Rs 4,84,000 per person.
The expedition needs 30 days, including a three-week online training programme and another three days of physical and psychological training at the Astroland facilities.
“Stepping outside your comfort zone is one of the most exciting parts of travel, and for even the most adventurous, Astroland truly delivers,” said Laurel Greatrix of TripAdvisor. “It’s a remarkable experience and we are excited to be offering it,” he added.
