"Equipment can fail, communication can be challenging and tasks can take longer than expected. Other tasks go just as planned. It's how we learn and how we are able to assemble all of this together so that someday we're prepared for the unexpected when we are living on and traversing the Martian surface," Todd explained. All cases are equally beneficial. "NEEMO 21 astronauts and crew will pioneer complex tasks on the seafloor utilising the most advanced underwater navigation and science tools which are methodically choreographed to mimic a Mars exploration traverse," said NEEMO Project Lead Bill Todd.Inside Aquarius, the international crew will conduct a variety of research and operations studies, such as testing a mini DNA sequencer that NASA astronaut Kate Rubins also will be testing aboard the International Space Station, and a telemedicine device that will be used for future space applications.During their simulated spacewalks, the crew will collect samples for marine biology and geology studies, test software for managing operations, and participate in a coral restoration project.Throughout many of these tasks, the mission will also test communications delays similar to those that would be encountered on a mission to Mars.

Source: Economic Times July 23, 2016 11:15 UTC