MAI to conduct Antarctic experiment in life activity in outer space

MOSCOW. Jan 31 (Interfax) - Scientists from the Moscow Aviation Institute (MAI) will conduct an experiment in surviving in outer space at a research base in Antarctica, the research findings will be used in creating a Russian orbital station, the MAI's press service told Interfax on Friday.

"Biomedical studies have begun. A group of six polar specialists has been selected, for whom a medical database is being compiled," the press service said.

The research into how to ensure life activity under extreme conditions began in January this year, the press service said. The project is conducted by the MAI department of ecology, life-sustaining systems and life activity safety jointly with the Antarctic research station.

"The research data will lay the foundation for developing a Russian orbital station (ROS) and building lunar and other planetary bases in the future," MAI said.

Core areas of work are to assess the impact of radiation and extreme temperatures on a human, develop telemedicine, mental and physiological skills, it said.

The scientists plan to assess the impact of radiation on human body to develop proper protective equipment later. Skills in providing first aid in an isolated environment also will be practiced.

"No special MAI group is yet being planned, there are difficulties with logistics and additional funding. We hope to resolve this issue and create a joint group in future. In the meantime, the work will be carried out remotely," the statement said.