In Hawaii, six scientists just stepped out from their 8-month 'martian' dome immersion, in a study funded by NASA.
Located on the scopes of Mauna Loa, a volcano in Honolulu, the scientists were tested on their social performances as a team trapped inside the dome as astronauts in Mars.
In an Associated Press information released by Huffington Post, this study reportedly aims to help NASA's future missions by determining the effects of the outer space environment towards the astronaut's emotions and behaviors.
University of Hawaii professor Kim Bisted who led the study, told AP, "astronauts are very stoic people, very level-headed, and there's a certain hesitancy to report problems." She added that this investigation "is a way for people on the ground to detect cohesion-related problems before they become a real issue."
Through surveillance cameras and various monitoring devices that track body movements, the crew members were observed on the challenges and ways in coping with the red planet's environment.
Their isolation gave them limited supply of food, ending up eating only frozen dried chillis, and water. One of the crew members, Jocelyn Dunn, told AP they were just allowed to shower for six minutes per week.
"When you're having a good day, it's fine. It's fun. You have friends around to share in the enjoyment of a good day. But if you have a bad day, it's really tough to be in a confined environment. You can't get out and go for a walk ... it's constantly witnessed by everyone," the 27-year-old doctorate student at Purdue University added.
The crew members engaged in exercises like yoga and team workouts using solar-powered equipment like a stationary bike and treadmill to relieve stress.
After eight months, Dunn added she was amazed by the feeling of finally breathing fresh air.
The crew reportedly spoiled themselves with all their food cravings after stepping out from the dome.
