Day: February 6, 2026

Report title: Journalist Report
Crew #: 325
Position: Crew Journalist
Report prepared by: Saranya Ravva
Date: 23Dec2025
Sol: 8

Journalist Report Title: Laughter, Spice, and Miles on Martian Ground
Mars Trivia Question, answer at the end of the report:
How does the size of Mars compare to Earth?
Sol 8 truly began the night before. After thoroughly enjoying dinner, we decided to wind down with some card games. We started with a few rounds of UNO and then switched to something spicier: a regular deck of cards transformed into Bluff, which we have now officially renamed as the Martian Certified Strategic Liar Game. The rules are explained quickly, with players placing cards in sequence and bluffing confidently even if we don’t have the respective card while trying not to get caught. Laughter escalated rapidly, and soon our faces hurt from giggling. Dessert became necessary. Adrianna suggested graham crackers with the butter frosting we discovered in the pantry, and right on cue, Cesare revealed yet another secret stash, replacing an almost empty Nutella jar with a brand new one. With sugar levels restored and morale fully boosted, we finally called it a night and went to bed.
The sol itself began with a wake-up song “Floyd Maroon by The Mellowells” chosen from Morgan’s favorite pick, gently pulling us into another Martian morning. As usual, we gathered around the dining table. Breakfast was a mix of cereals, dehydrated berries, nuts, and “milk” also known as fake milk aka filk as we Martians call it. I made a savory oatmeal inspired by Indian breakfasts back home. Unfortunately, it turned out far too spicy for most of the crew, though it absolutely satisfied my own palate.
We used the precious communications window to get as much productive work done as possible, fully aware of how quickly time is slipping away. Soon after, it was time to prepare for the day’s EVA. Ellenah, Adrianna, and Morgan set out entirely on foot to explore Skyland Rim, a region known for a feature called The Wall. The EVA covered nearly five miles, all in bulky suits, and by the time they radioed back, their exhaustion was clear. They requested water bottles to be set out immediately upon return.
Once back inside, the EVA crew quickly assembled improvised meals consisting of tuna sandwiches, leftovers, bread with peanut butter and jelly, and cereal. The rest of the afternoon slowed down, with personal time spread across quiet work, and recovery, until we heard our favorite call of the day: dinner is ready.
Dinner was prepared by Ellenah and Isabella, who made chicken and vegetable fried rice. It smelled wonderful and tasted great, though it came with a generous amount of pepper, which resulted in plenty of laughter and sneezes. I thoroughly enjoyed the extra kick, once again finding comfort in flavors that felt close to home.
We also managed to sneak in another round of Bluff card game. Morgan remains undefeated with three wins, I hold one certified victory, and the rest of the crew is determined to earn their Martian certification soon. As the evening communications window opened, we gathered once again around the dining table, reports already written but excitement high to use the limited connectivity for any last productive tasks.
Trivia Answer:
Mars has a diameter of about 6,779 km, compared to Earth’s 12,742 km, making it roughly half as wide and significantly less massive.
Sol 8 complete. Mars feels lively, challenging, and increasingly familiar.