Report title: EVA Report
Crew #: 335
Position: Engineer
Report prepared by: Katherine Berry
Date: 21-Apr-2026
Sol: 2
EVA #: 4
Purpose of EVA: The objective of this EVA was to evaluate the operational differences between piloting a drone with and without the EVA suit. Participants will first operate the drone from inside the observation deck without an EVA suit, and then repeat the operation from outside the fence while wearing the required protective equipment.
Start time: 10:00
End time: 10:30
Narrative: The EVA team proceeded on foot to the Solar Observatory observation deck as planned. Due to time constraints and prioritization of initial testing, operations were conducted from the observation deck without EVA suits. The team performed two controlled drone flight circuits to simulate baseline conditions for the study, focusing on maneuverability and controller handling without the limitations imposed by an EVA suit. Environmental conditions were stable, low wind and allowed for clear visibility and safe operation.
The session was cut short when the drone controller battery reached a critically low level (17%) preventing continuation of the planned comparative trials outside the fence line with full EVA gear.
The study will be postponed and rescheduled for a future EVA, contingent on suitable weather conditions and full equipment readiness.
Destination per MDRS Map: Solar Observatory
Destination Coordinates : 38.41N 110.79W
EVA Participants: Kat Berry,David Laude
Road(s) and routes per MDRS Map: N/A
Mode of travel: Walking