Ep 2. Astronaut Training

In the second episode of Xploration Outer Space season 1, viewers are taken on a journey through the rigorous training that aspiring astronauts endure before venturing into space. An important aspect of astronaut training is enabling individuals to withstand the extreme physical demands of space travel and the weightlessness experienced while orbiting the earth. To achieve this, the Training requires individuals to follow an intense regimen of exercise, augmented with various tests and challenges that test their resilience and determination.

The episode begins with a look at the history and evolution of astronaut training programs. Viewers will learn about the fundamentals of astronaut training and the various specialized programs designed to help astronauts prepare for the unique demands of space travel. The episode also highlights the role of simulators in astronaut training which enable trainees to practice various scenarios they might encounter in space.

The viewers will also get a glimpse of what it takes to design, build, and operate spacecraft which are for safely carrying the astronauts and the unparalleled technologies that are used to sustain life in space. This includes a look at the facilities where astronauts train, the equipment used in training, medical testing, and simulations run by NASA.

The episode also focuses on the psychological aspects of astronaut training. Space travel can be extremely isolating and disorienting, and astronauts must be able to handle and overcome these challenges. Viewers will learn how astronauts prepare themselves mentally while they are on earth, and also, how they adjust upon returning to earth as well.

The viewers will get to know how future astronauts are trained in neutral buoyancy, a technique that simulates the weightlessness experienced in space. The trainees are sent to the Neutral Buoyancy Lab, which is a giant pool equipped with mock-ups of spacecraft, space station modules, and other equipment. The trainees learn to maneuver inside the lab while remaining weightless.

The episode also covers the principle of centrifugal force which is used to recreate the weightlessness felt in space. The Anti-Gravity Center, which is a part of the training facility, where trainees are taken through a centrifuge which exerts varying levels of G-force on their bodies. Experienced instructors guide the trainees on how to deal with the physical aspects of acceleration and deceleration.

Moreover, viewers will find out what is the "Treadmill With Vibration Isolation and Stabilization (TVIS)," which is used to keep the astronauts fit while they are in space. The TVIS minimizes the impact of vibrations and disturbances caused by exercises similar to those done on Earth, such as running or cycling on a stationary bike.

The episode also explores what it takes to be a part of the International Space Station (ISS) crew. Astronauts who are a part of the ISS crew are responsible for maintaining the spacecraft, executing scientific experiments, and staying fit for their return to earth. The viewers will learn what it takes to become an astronaut on the ISS crew and what kinds of ongoing training is necessary to fulfill such a role.

Finally, the viewers will also get to know how astronauts prepare themselves for emergencies. Sometimes, emergencies happen in space and astronauts need to be able to handle any situation that arises. NASA prepares its astronauts for emergency situations by running simulations of potential crises. These scenarios involve anything from system failures to depressurization in the spacecraft.

Overall, Xploration Outer Space season 1 episode 2, "Astronaut Training," offers an in-depth look at the extensive preparation required for individuals hoping to become astronauts. The episode covers a wide range of topics, including the history of astronaut training, the role of simulators, and the various tests and challenges that trainees must face. By the end of this episode, the viewers will have a new appreciation for the dedication, hard work, and perseverance required to become an astronaut.