CAVES-X is an extension of the CAVES course. While the CAVES course aims to train a group of astronauts who are supervised by experienced cavers, CAVES-X expeditions allow an astronaut to join an exploration and research a speleological expedition. Again, Miles Beyond takes care of the technical and logistical organisation on behalf of ESA.
CAVES-X1 took place in Sciacca (Sicily, Italy) in 2017, with ESA astronaut Luca Parmitano participating in a speleological expedition organised by the La Venta association, the Department of Earth and Marine Sciences – University of Palermo. The expedition was also supported by Flyability which provided two prone-collision drones to explore remote areas of these Sicilian caves.
Photo credits ESA
