The HERA Campaign 7 Mission 2 crew members Piyumi Wijesekara and Shareef Al Romaithi join a groundlink Q&A with students at Space Center Houston on June 21, 2024. <\/div>\n
Credit: Space Center Houston\/Jennifer Foulds\u00a0<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Inside HERA, mealtimes were bonding moments where the crew shared stories, laughed, and supported each other. When a student asked about building stronger teams, Wijesekara advised, \u201cSpend time with your crewmates, get to know them deeply, and be a good listener.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Al Romaithi, who hails from the UAE, shared that his academic background in aerospace engineering and aviation helped him stand out in the application process. In addition, this HERA campaign is focused on cultural diversity, which opened the opportunity for him to apply through a partnership between HERA and MBRSC.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Discussing the mental effects of isolation, Al Romaithi highlighted the comfort provided by personal items, books, and board games. Wijesekara noted that the white noise of instruments running became their constant companion that her senses adjusted to over time.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Wijesekara told the audience her favorite experience was performing spacewalks and \u201cflying drones on Mars,\u201d via virtual reality, which allowed them to observe Martian landscapes and even lava caves. Through the habitat\u2019s window screens, they could see simulated views of space and Martian landscapes.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
The crew addressed the challenges they faced inside the analog environment, such as communication delays, which taught them teamwork, patience, and precise planning. They utilized a 3D printer aboard HERA to address equipment issues. A curious student asked what happens to the crew and the mission in case of an outside emergency, like a hurricane. Both crew members explained that HERA provided them with step-by-step emergency instructions.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Medical evaluations and nutrition-specific meal plans were crucial for the mission, Al Romaithi and Wijesekara noted, with daily monitoring of the crew\u2019s physical and mental health. The crew also grew lettuce hydroponically and had four pet triops shrimp named Buzz, Alvin, Simon, and Theodore.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
When a student asked what food he missed most, Al Romaithi replied, \u201cHome-cooked meals.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Wijesekara shared the first thing she plans to do post-mission is see her family and visit a list of restaurants with her crewmates. She also looks forward to running on the beach.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Reflecting on their experience, Al Romaithi noted, \u201cWe\u2019ve become more disciplined and efficient in our daily activities.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
What was the most valuable lesson learned? \u201cThe importance of teamwork and communication,\u201d he said.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Both crewmembers also gave students in the audience some advice. \u201cNever hesitate or be shy to ask for help,\u201d Al Romaithi said. \u201cAlways push for your biggest dreams, don\u2019t let self-doubt slow you down, and believe in yourself.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
\u201cAnd keep studying!\u201d added Wijesekara.\u00a0<\/p>\n
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