
Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory
The Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL) is a large swimming pool at NASA used for training astronauts. In the NBL, astronauts practice moving and working in a weightless environment by submerging their bodies, which simulates the conditions of space. By achieving neutral buoyancy, where they neither sink nor float, they can rehearse tasks and learn to manage their equipment effectively. This training helps astronauts prepare for the complexities of performing missions aboard the International Space Station, ensuring they are familiar with the challenges of working in microgravity.