Biosphere 2

NearTucson, just north of Saddlebrook sets an Earth systems science research facility known as Biosphere 2 is an science research facility. The size of two and one half football fields, Biosphere 2 remains the largest closed system in existing today. Biosphere 2 had two closure experiments, Missions 1 and 2, during which the structure was sealed with researchers living inside. The first, with a crew of eight people, ran for two years from 1991 to 1993. The sealed nature of the structure allowed scientists to monitor the continually changing chemistry of the air, water and soil contained within. Health of the human crew was monitored by a medical doctor inside and an outside medical team. Experiments continue today through the University of Arizona