The paper considers the topical areas of applying VR environment in the pro-cess of training cosmonauts to perform extravehicular activities. The tasks that can be solved using virtual reality are defined. The paper gives a descrip-tion of operations and scenarios for which it is possible to use virtual reality systems. The stages of cosmonaut training, at which it is advisable to apply the results of the defined tasks, are determined.

The paper presents results of experimental studies of the potential use of virtual reality tools in the TsF-18 centrifuge’s cabin to simulate control of the Lunokhod by a cosmonaut. The possibility to use the virtual reality tools in the TsF-18 centrifuge’s cabin, operability of these tools and comfort of wearing the virtual reality helmet for an operator were experimentally confirmed. Tests performed confirm the feasibility of controlling the centrifuge’s motion in order to simulate the Lunokhod movement over the difficult lunar surface. Objective experimental data and subjective assessments show that in most tests an operator was able to control the Lunokhod comfortably.

The paper proposes experimental studies to evaluate a cosmonaut's ability to control an on-planet rover immediately after a long space mission. The general concept of the experimental research is presented. The general requirements for a simulator of the on-planet rover and proposals for the technical support of post-flight research are represented.

The paper reviews analogue missions performed by ESA in the interests of crewed flights to deep space. The following projects are considered here: the CAVES project is designed to study and mature technologies in caves; the PANGAEVA project is designed to work out the programs for geological training of astronauts and the technologies in an impact crater, canyon and volcanic island; the :envihab project is designed to examine humans using multifunctional modular medical research complex; and the ESOL project is designed to develop lunar missions using the complex of artificial lunar counterparts. The objectives, tasks and research lines are analyzed for each project.

Analysis of realistic prototypes of a propulsive survival backpack (PSB) and current human-PSB models gave impetus to the development of original tools for designing the scenery and PSB application scenarios with consideration of the VR and 3D experiences in isolation studies and operators' training. Specifically, the authors created several VR/AR scenarios of emergency egress for participants in isolation studies.