Crew Bios and Mission Patch – <Date – April 5th>

Rym Chaid – Mission Commander & Crew Astronomer:
Rym is Director of the Mars Society Canada with a background in mechanical/aerospace engineering and space health research. An experienced analog astronaut, she has explored extreme environments from caves to Moon and Mars simulations, and flying in Microgravity, always with a mission to showcase the human context of exploration. As the Commander of the World’s Biggest Analog mission at MDRS, Rym brings both leadership experience and vision, and is dedicated to inspiring others and advancing humanity’s journey toward becoming a spacefaring civilization through her Documentary storytelling.

Ricardo J. Gonzalez – Crew Engineer & Crew Astronomer:
Ricardo J. Gonzalez is an astrophysicist turned engineer and NASA flight controller supporting the ISS from the Mission Control Center in Houston, Texas. As an aspiring astronaut, he is eager to find solutions to spaceflight’s most complex challenges, including living and working in extreme environments. Now, his ambitions turn towards the analog astronaut world in pursuit of his greater dreams through participation in Crew 319 at MDRS under the World’s Biggest Analog program.

Shriya Musuku – HSO & Crew Scientist:
Shriya Musuku is a Mechanical Engineer (BS/MS), first responder, and premedical candidate. Her passion for health and technology merges in her work in the analog astronautics field through the World’s Biggest Analog mission where she is the Crew Science Officer. She is passionate about expanding healthcare access and STEAM education and is leveraging this mission to advance those initiatives through community engagement

Mackenzie Calle – Crew Journalist & Green Hab Officer:
Mackenzie Calle is a documentary photographer and National Geographic Explorer. Focused on long-term stories, her work largely delves into space science and queer issues. Her work has been awarded by World Press Photo and the Sony World Photography Awards, amongst others. She is thrilled to be a part of the World’s Biggest Analog and Crew 319 at Mars Desert Research Station to document this story from the perspective of a crew member.