In Honor of the University of Arizona's Biosphere 2 Research Facility

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Mr. GOSAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the faculty and students of the University of Arizona for the work they do at Biosphere 2. Biosphere 2 was built in 1991. Its original purpose was to simulate different climates and biomes from around Earth and to see if it was possible to recreate the natural cycles of the earth inside a contained space. Their goal was to see if this type of habitat was sustainable and to ultimately use this technology for space colonization. Although the original experiments were unsuccessful, the investment in infrastructure continues to provide scientific value to this day. The University of Arizona has turned this science experiment of the 1990s into a first-class research facility with a myriad of uses. The fact that Biosphere 2 is completely separated from the rest of the environment has made it the perfect area to study some of the great challenges society faces today as they relate to the environment, water, and energy management. The work completed there has advanced mankind's understanding of environments, both natural and manmade, allowing the next generation of scientists to be better educated and trained in this field of study. The advancements in horticulture, water usage and environmental science as a result of their work are commendable. I urge them to continue pursuing their commitment to scientific excellence.

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