Antarctic expedition at J. G. Mendel Station: An operational and scientific overview and its potential as a space analog environment

Terrestrial analog environments are critical for preparing for long-duration space exploration by simulating the isolated, confined, and extreme conditions of off-world habitats. This paper presents an operational and scientific overview of the 2025 austral summer expedition to the Johann Gregor Mendel Czech Antarctic Station on James Ross Island, documenting its potential as a high-fidelity space analog. Over a 49-day period, a 14-member interdisciplinary crew lived and worked at the station, with research activities focused on human physiological and psychological adaptation, environmental science, and the operational assessment of space-relevant technologies. A human monitoring strategy was established using custom and commercial wearable sensors to collect continuous electrocardiography, inertial measurements, and photoplethysmography, complemented by structured protocols assessing exercise performance, postural control, and cognitive function. Furthermore, remote telemedicine tools were also trialed for feasibility. These efforts produced a longitudinal dataset and operational insights that will support future analyses. Together, the operational experiences and scientific activities demonstrate that J. G. Mendel Station, particularly James Ross Island with its Mars-like geomorphology and operational constraints, offers a valuable platform for testing mission-critical technologies, advancing physiological research, and shaping protocols for future missions to the Moon and Mars.