Cynic, realist, whatever: when I stood around chatting with my free drink, surrounded by optimism, I harbored some reservations about the usefulness of analog astronautics and the motivations of the participants. The group felt very grouplike, and the mood was idealistic-as in “We are a family whose earthly explorations will enable a better and inevitable future in space.” Rightly or wrongly, I don’t tend to be a joiner, and I’m skeptical of human space exploration’s scientific value and long-term likelihood. Participants were united in their desire to advance space travel while remaining stuck on Earth and to make Earth more functional in the meantime.Īt the opening reception, I felt separate from my cohort and doubtful of the enterprise. The occasion for this particular four-day meetup was the Analog Astronaut Conference, an annual gathering to share results, plans and experiences in simulated space research. Today it is used for research related to climate change, biodiversity and sustainability.
Located northwest of Tucson, Ariz., it hasn’t been used for its original, sealed, astronautic purpose since 1994.
Last month I gathered with those who’ve participated in such experiments at Biosphere 2, which today is operated by the University of Arizona. Researchers study the systems that sustain the facilities, the procedures and instruments the participants use, and their psychology and biology-the scientific versions of “Can they do it? How will they react?” They venture outside only in a spacesuit, if at all, and interact with no one but their crewmates. For weeks or months, small crews get locked inside a habitat, capsule or settlement to simulate a space mission. The idea of applying my efforts to space research rather than individual satisfaction was appealing.Ī lot of people must feel similarly because today the globe is dotted with such analog facilities. Usually for me that involves tackling some pointless, agonizingly long trail-running trial. I love a “Can I actually do it? How will I react?” challenge. It was an early “ analog astronaut” experiment: a study that asks people on this planet to pretend to be spacefarers. The goal was to study how people and ecosystems survived in the sequestered, self-supporting habitat and to demonstrate the viability of a similar setup for future space travel. They would stay for two years in the enclosed facility in the Sonoran Desert, which was home to five different ecosystems. Raised grandstands offer a fantastic view so fans don’t miss any angle of the racing action!!įor outdoor sports enthusiasts, explore the only 5 Star indoor shooting range in the region, take a tour at Buck Knives, the American knife manufacturer, and shop at Cabela’s for your outdoor supplies.In 1991 eight people in Arizona entered a strange contraption: a 3.14-acre glass house called Biosphere 2. From April – October the 1/4 mile, paved, banked, oval track offers thrills and spills. Thousands of race fans from all over the region gather on the weekends at the speedway for the best outdoor venue for all ages. Stop in the local brewery boasting several championship brews and ciders. Schedule a tasting tour at the local Gold Award, farm to the flask distillery, or enjoy the region’s winner for best cocktails and whiskey bar. Post Falls is home to several, award-winning establishments including a James Beard Award chef and local bistro owner, 2022 Idaho’s Best Deli, American, Northwest and pallet pleaser restaurants with flavors from all over the globe. In the Spring when the falls are opened, explore whitewater kayaking.Ĭheck out the restaurant and beverage scene featuring an array of diverse menus and spirits. Below the falls is equally as exciting with kayaking, floating, fishing and one of the best disc golf experiences on the river with a fun but challenging 18-hole course among towering ponderosa pines located in Corbin Park. Q’emiln Park offers a gorgeous swim beach and boat launch. Just over 7 miles of fun, connecting to Lake Coeur d’Alene. Above the falls on the Spokane River, you will find unlimited possibilities for boating, paddle boarding, skiing, and wake boarding. There’s a path for every age and level of hiking. Hike the Post Falls Community Forest on easy to moderate trails of valleys and peaks to explore and views for miles.
Mountain Bike 20 miles of loop trails through incredible scenery and intense heights with the Spokane River rushing below perfect for moderate and advanced riders. Discover a multitude of morning, noon, and evening activities all within 5 minutes of Interstate 90.Ĭlimb the Q’emiln Walls featuring over 140 routes and bouldering opportunities for all ages. Post Falls, Idaho holds the key to breath taking landscapes, thrilling activities, culinary delights, and accommodations for any size budget.
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