Morning Briefing
The day began with a briefing on the mission objectives and safety protocols. Today’s EVA focused on searching for signs of life on Mars and identifying an optimal site for a new habitat to be built. Students utilized scientific instruments to analyze soil and rock samples while also assessing terrain stability, radiation exposure, and resource availability for future habitat construction. Today’s EVA ended in a simulated electrocution that led to cardiac arrest in one of the team members.
Cardiac Arrest Response and CPR in Space Environments
Objective: Perform an emergency medical response to a cardiac arrest scenario in a simulated EVA environment.
Teams identified and responded to a simulated astronaut experiencing cardiac arrest.
Students practiced performing CPR under simulated Martian gravity conditions, incorporating modifications for effectiveness in reduced gravity.
Automated external defibrillator (AED) protocols were reviewed and applied in the field.
Communication strategies were tested to ensure clear relay of patient status and intervention steps between EVA teams and the Hab.
Debriefing and Lessons Learned
Following the EVA, students participated in a debriefing session where they discussed key takeaways, challenges faced, and strategies for improvement. The session reinforced the importance of quick medical decision-making, teamwork, and adapting life-saving techniques for extraterrestrial environments. Students also discussed medical futility and the ethical challenges of losing a crewmember.
End of Week Reflection and Movie Night
To close out the week, students gathered for a movie night, providing a chance to reflect on the skills they developed and the challenges they tackled throughout the training program. The event fostered camaraderie and offered a well-deserved break after an intense week of mission simulations.