Joshua Kutryk Joins NASA's SEATEST 7 Underwater Lunar Mission in September 2024

On September 25, 2024, Canadian Space Agency astronaut Joshua Kutryk participated in NASA's SEATEST 7 underwater mission, which was conducted off Santa Catalina Island, California. The mission involved a lunar habitat mockup situated at a depth of approximately nine meters. This simulation aimed to prepare astronauts for future lunar missions by recreating conditions and challenges associated with establishing a permanent presence on the Moon. During the SEATEST 7 mission, Kutryk and his fellow astronauts tested various scenarios that focused on logistics operations necessary for sustained lunar exploration. These exercises are crucial for understanding how to manage resources and conduct operations in a challenging extraterrestrial environment. The insights gained from these simulations will inform future missions under NASA's Artemis program. In addition to his participation in SEATEST 7, Joshua Kutryk is preparing for a six-month mission aboard the International Space Station, which is scheduled to launch no earlier than 2025. His ongoing training and contributions are part of a broader effort by Canadian astronauts to advance space exploration initiatives. The SEATEST 7 mission represents a significant step in preparing for long-term lunar habitation, as it allows astronauts to practice and refine their skills in a controlled underwater environment. The knowledge gained from this mission will be instrumental in ensuring the success of future lunar missions and the establishment of a sustainable human presence on the Moon.