Lava tube analogue test site, for Moon and Mars in West Iceland

The association 4th Planet Logistics Iceland (4PLI) is setting up one of the first natural cave sites for testing Moon and Mars exploration gear, technology, and life support, with the focus to use lava tubes (naturally occurring volcanic caves) as a habitat. 4PLI has access to Stefánshellir lava tube in West Iceland and organizes the activities at the site. We are working to make the cave a simulation and testing site for space exploration companies and institutions. Orbiter reconnaissance images confirmed the existence of lava tubes on Moon and Mars. With its volcanic origin and its arctic climate, Iceland is a very good analog environment to test material and simulate space missions. In addition the intensity of sunlight in Iceland (65°N) is about the same as at Mars' equator, making botanical experiments with natural sunlight realistic as well. Our goal is to increase research of lava tubes on Moon and Mars, to enable exploration for reasons such as use as a base for astronaut shelters and finding water and life.