TerraXcube is Eurac Research's center for extreme climate simulation, located in the NOI Techpark in Bolzano (South Tyrol). D-Air Lab chose this facility for the development of a controlled environment test focused on studying human reactions and technologies in extreme cold conditions.
The goal of these tests was to verify the functionality, usability, reliability and ergonomics of the systems used, both in a neutral environment and in one with characteristics analogous to those of Antarctica. The activity involved simulating a real Antarctic mission inside the Large Cube climate chamber where the subject had to reach a device to be serviced, move to other points in the environment to dig a trench in the snow, and finally return to base.
The test phases: zero state and extreme Antarctic simulation
The test was divided in two distinct phases, separated by two weeks, with different environmental conditions: the first phase, called "Zero State," was conducted under optimal conditions with the purpose of defining the subject's physiological parameters in an ideal context. The second phase, called "Antarctic Simulation", aimed to verify performance under extreme environmental conditions such as -40°C, an altitude of 3230 m above sea level, humidity, UV radiation and wind analogous to those present in Antarctica, and the windchill effect to accentuate thermal dispersion.
During both phases, data were collected on vital parameters and thermal dispersion, and biometric monitoring systems were verified.
The results of the test
The final results of the TerraXcube test provided an essential contribution to improving the reliability of devices and operating procedures in extreme environments, with significant and direct repercussions in everyday life.
These complex tests in extreme cold conditions are not confined to the TerraXcube Large Cube: the reliability, thermal dispersion management, and ergonomics verified in Antarctic simulation are the basis of the 75°06'S winter clothing line. Jackets and winter clothing that offer maximum protection, warmth, and technology tested to withstand -40°C, garments that bring the innovation of Antarctic expeditions into everyday life, perfect for travelers and explorers.