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Scientists emerge from dome on Hawaii volcano after 8 months in isolation

A truck driving down the narrow, windy road from Mauna Loa Observatory atmospheric research facility on the island of Hawaii. AP Photo/Chris Stewart

HONOLULU – Six scientists who have been living under a dome on the slopes of a dormant Hawaii volcano for eight months to simulate life on Mars have emerged from isolation.

The crew stepped outside the dome that’s 2,400 metres up the slopes of Mauna Loa to feel fresh air on their skin Saturday. It was the first time they left without donning a space suit.

READ MORE: NASA’s ‘flying saucer’ completes second test with measured success

The scientists are part of a human performance study funded by NASA that’s tracking how they work together as a team. They’ve been monitored by surveillance cameras, body movement trackers and electronic surveys.

Crew member Jocelyn Dunn says it feels awesome to have the sensation of wind on her skin. She says the first thing she wants to do is to go for a swim.

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