Explore the HI-SEAS Mars simulation dome (in pictures)

Six scientists spent eight months almost completely cut off from the outside world in a dome based in Hawai'i in order to simulate the environment and challenges future Mars colonists will face.

When venturing out to explore the landing site, the team -- kept away from other human contact -- needed to suit up in hazmats to simulate the radiation issues of Mars' surface.

Exercise, exploration, food preperation and energy production were all part of day-to-day life in the dome.

The team not only had some dehydrated food supplies, but had to learn how to cultivate and harvest their own fresh produce in the limited space of the dome.

"Carrots, peppers, Bok Choy, Chinese cabbage, mustard greens, radishes, tomatoes, potatoes, I mean gosh, tons of parsley and oregano, it was phenomenal," said Joshua Ehrlich, the biology specialist of Mission V. "I mean just that delicious, fresh taste from home was really good."

One team member, Laura Lark who has now left the dome, said the next batch of scientists needed to be "honest with each other" and expect different reactions to what they may have experienced at home -- and get on with the job anyway.

The schedule was busy, but in downtime, the team were able to don virtual reality headsets and escape from the dome.

Now this team has completed their journey, the results of their experience will be used to pave the way for the next group, scheduled to endure eight months in the dome next year.