Astronaut Anti-Gravity Simulators

Astronaut anti-gravity simulators are specialized training systems that help crews practice moving and working in reduced-gravity environments while still on Earth. One of NASA’s best-known examples is the Active Response Gravity Offload System, or ARGOS, which uses a giant overhead crane-like system to support part of an astronaut’s weight and simulate conditions such as lunar gravity, Martian gravity, or even microgravity. By sensing the astronaut’s movements and adjusting in real time, the system enables more realistic training in walking, balance, equipment testing, and mission procedures, giving crews a safer, more controlled way to prepare for the physical challenges of space exploration before launch. These simulators are where the first astronauts learned how to try and walk on the moon, which is what the giant Assembly and the moving floor in the photo represent. That is shown below.