Collecting samples

ESA astronaut Luca Parmitano during the CAVES-X1 expedition in a cave system in Italy, May 2017.

ESA has been testing equipment, techniques and working methods for missions with astronauts in inner space for many years. Delving inside Earth and exploring caves often parallels the exploration of outer space, from a lack of sunlight to working in cramped spaces and relying on equipment for safety.

An extension of ESA’s Cooperative Adventure for Valuing and Exercising human behaviour and performance Skills course, this CAVES-X1 expedition saw Luca join a scientific expedition organised by La Venta Association in the La Cucchiara caves near Sciacca, Sicily.