On May 22 GCTC started testing Hydrolaboratory systems for the first time after completion of the broadscale maintenance works. In the framework of testing Orlan EVA spacesuits with mannequins inside were submerged to check spacesuits and Hydrolab systems before cosmonauts’ trainings.
Testing operations lasted for more than 2 hours and involved hydrolab training crew including divers and medical specialists of GCTC medical department.
“Preliminary training with mannequins was a success, we’ve checked two spacesuits, – GCTC deputy Head of Department Alexei Altunin reports. – This result enables us to plan hydrolab trainings with operators taking part for next week. Preliminary testing will either go on”.
Gagarin Cosmonaut training Centre Hydrolaboratory being a unique complex hydraulic structure comprising processing equipment, special systems and mechanisms is one of the main training facilities to prepare cosmonauts and astronauts for the future extravehicular activities at all stages of their preparation.
Photo credit: GCTC