Mars Crew Exits Habitat Healthy After Historic 72-Hour Pressurisation Test

Six crew members emerged from the Mars Desert Research Station's Habitat Alpha on Thursday morning after 72 consecutive hours inside the fully sealed analog environment. All six were healthy and eager to go back in.

What Was Tested

The 72-hour pressurised habitation test was the final major milestone before a 30-day full-duration analog mission planned for September 2026. During those three days, the crew performed simulated EVA preparation, operated life-support monitoring, and conducted geology experiments.