Earth Analogues

Abstract

Terrestrial analogue environments are places on Earth with geological or environmental conditions that are similar to those that exist on an extraterrestrial body [1]. The purpose of using these terrestrial analogue sites for planetary missions can be divided into four basic categories: (i) to learn about planetary processes on Earth and elsewhere; (ii) to test methodologies, protocols, strategies, and technologies; (iii) to train highly qualified personnel, as well as science and operation teams; and (iv) to engage the public, space agencies, media, and educators [1, 2]. A recent ESA study, CAFE—Concepts for Activities in the Field for Exploration [3], resulted in a catalogue of all planetary analogue sites used and currently in use [4]. This catalogue contains in-depth descriptions of each of these field sites, including location, geological context, environmental information, and infrastructure, and is currently the most extensive and up-to-date catalogue. A very comprehensive overview of analogue sites grouped per planetary surface feature can be found in [5]. Current analogue activities focus on five planetary bodies: the Moon, Mars, Europa and Enceladus, andTitan. Below we highlight a few planetary analogue sites for these five bodies summarized from [5], as well as field-testing campaigns and semipermanent field-testing bases.