Scientists emerge after spending eight months in isolated volcano dome

Six scientists who lived in a dome on the slopes of a dormant Hawaiian volcano to simulate life on Mars have emerged after eight months.

The only time the scientists had spent outside their isolated home during the experiment was in their restrictive spacesuits.

Perched upon the slops of Mauna Loa, the crew participated in the NASA-funded mission to assess how humans would cope with living on Mars.

Participant Jocelyn Dunn told NBC News that it was “awesome” to feel some fresh air.

“When we first walked out the door, it was scary not to have a suit on,” the PhD student said.

“We’ve been pretending for so long.”

Mauna Loa is the largest volcano in Hawaii and was chosen for its resemblance to what scientists expect life on Mars might be like.

The crew members could see only lava fields and mountains from the dome’s windows.

Their nutrition, physical fitness and mental wellbeing were assessed during the stint.

Researchers also examined the dynamics of teamwork and communication to anticipate how a crew in outer space might problem solve or handle a depressed team member.