Dry Immersion

Dry immersion is a ground-based analogue that closely replicates the physiological effects of microgravity. Subjects are immersed in water covered by an elastic waterproof fabric, creating conditions that mimic weightlessness within a short timeframe.

Why Dry Immersion?

This model allows researchers to:

• Study rapid physiological changes similar to those experienced during spaceflight
• Compare responses to other microgravity analogues and actual space missions
• Test and validate countermeasures for long-duration exploration

Dry immersion is particularly valuable for understanding fluid shifts, musculoskeletal unloading, and neurovestibular adaptation.

ESA’s Role

ESA recently led three validation studies:

• VIVALDI I: all-female campaign
• VIVALDI II: all-male campaign
• VIVALDI III: comparison between Dry Immersion and Bedrest

These studies aim to identify what changes occur in the body during simulated weightlessness, how quickly they develop, and how they compare to spaceflight. Results will inform future countermeasure strategies.

Learn More

More information on ESA VIVALDI studies:

• VIVALDI I: ESA – All-female crew in water-tank spaceflight study
• VIVALDI II: ESA – Weightless on Earth with Vivaldi
• VIVALDI III: ESA – Extended space dive