China Trains Taikonauts in Caves for Moon Missions: Simulating Lunar Extremes

• China launched a unique program sending 28 Taikonauts to a remote karst cave system in Wulong National Park, Chongqing.
• The week-long training simulated harsh lunar conditions like limited light, variable temperatures, communication delays, and scarce resources.
• Led by experienced astronaut Ye Guangfu, the exercises prepare Taikonauts mentally and physically for future lunar landings.
• Tasks included rappelling, mapping underground routes, and surviving alone, crucial for navigating lunar terrain and habitats.
• This initiative builds on China's spaceflight expertise, aiming for underground lunar habitats and the International Lunar Research Station by 2030.

Why It Matters: China uses cave training to prepare Taikonauts for the Moon's extreme environment and future lunar missions.