Author: jburk

Sol #5
Title: Habituation
Journalist’s name: Sunny
Crew name: Alpha
Crew number: 287

As the Martian sun rose over the horizon, the Mars Desert Research Center buzzed with a disciplined rhythm, signifying another day of exploration and innovation. I, Journalist Sunny, am here to capture the essence of today’s activities.

Morning Activities: Our day began with a brief yet energizing breakfast, fueling us for the challenges ahead. Shortly thereafter, we engaged in a live log meeting with members and supporters of the Mongolian MARS-V project. This interaction was not only informative but also a morale booster, reinforcing the collaborative spirit of our mission.

EVA #5: The highlight of the morning was EVA #5, where as the lead, I joined HSO Duluu, Geologist Davaa, and Engineer Muggi in a venture to Compass Rock. The EVA was successful, marked by drone testing and significant observations of the beautiful landscape of Mars and testing our rovers’ battery usage.

Afternoon Relaxation and Work: Post-EVA, we were treated to a delicious lunch of crew commander and psychologist, followed by a much-needed nap, allowing us to recharge our energy, quite literally. We received wonderful news from the greenhouse indicating that the radish and kale seeds, planted on November 28th, have successfully sprouted.

Innovations and Meetings: The afternoon saw Commander Dono engaged in an online meeting with the Helmet Design Development Team of the MARS-V project, focusing on advancements in protective gear. Simultaneously, Engineer Muggi and HSO were busy making a hydroponic wick system for the Greenhab, enhancing our agricultural capabilities in this distant world. Engineer’s measurements of the water tank brought good news – our water usage is becoming more efficient, a critical aspect of our long-term sustainability here.

Conclusion: Today was a testament to the disciplined and innovative spirit that drives our team. Each activity, from the EVA to the individual projects, contributes significantly to the success of our mission. As we continue to decrease our water usage and improve our self-sufficiency, the dream of a sustained human presence on Mars becomes ever more tangible.

Sol #4
Title: Habituation
Journalist’s name: Sunny
Crew name: Alpha
Crew number: 287

Today at the Mars Desert Research Center, Sol #4 commenced with the usual spirited breakfast, an essential start for our team’s physical health and psychological wellbeing. The day’s highlight was the long-distance EVA, led by Tungaa with team members Dono and Muggi. As CapComm, I, Journalist Sunny, had the privilege of overseeing and documenting this crucial operation. The EVA crew embarked at 10:30 a.m., aiming for the Gateway to Lith. However, an unexpected turn occurred when the rover’s battery proved insufficient for the journey, leading the team to stop at Cowboy Corner. This unplanned halt, rather than being a setback, became an opportunity for discovery as the crew explored the surrounding Martian landscape.

HSO Duluu, was immersed in the Greenhab, planting and harvesting microgreens, including radishes for our lunch salad. The freshness of these greens added a delightful touch to our already fantastic lunch, reminding us of Earth’s flavors amidst the Martian wilderness. As the evening approaches, excitement buzzes through the Hab. We’ve planned a "Martian movie night," featuring "Space Between Us." This event is not just a recreational activity; it’s a moment for the team to bond and unwind after a day of rigorous exploration and work.

In conclusion, Sol #4 has been a blend of meticulous planning, unexpected adventures, and communal harmony. As we forge ahead in our mission, each day reveals new facets of Mars and strengthens the camaraderie essential for our journey on this distant world.

Sol #3
Title: Adapting on Mars
Journalist’s name: Sunny
Crew name: Alpha
Crew number: 287

As of four days into the Mars simulation at the Desert Research Center, our team has begun to adjust to the 13-hour time difference. This adaptation is evident in their improved sleep patterns, allowing for more effective daily operations.

Our culinary practices have incorporated Mongolian-inspired dishes, noted for their time efficiency, minimal preparation, and delicious flavors. The crew have reached a consensus on a new approach: packaging green vegetables separately to maintain freshness. The lunch menu, prepared by the crew commander Dono and assisted by the psychologist Tungaa, featured a delectable spaghetti dish that I found particularly enjoyable. It’s fascinating and fulfilling to taste meals prepared by colleagues, despite our years of acquaintance. Dinner was an innovative twist on traditional cuisine, featuring black bean burgers and vegetable broth, during which we discussed strategies for more efficient water usage.

In terms of scientific exploration, three key team members – the crew commander, engineer, and geologist – embarked on an EVA this morning. Their goals were multifaceted: evaluating the rovers’ long-distance capabilities, identifying potential geological sampling sites, and comparing the efficacy of new versus old helmet designs. The Greenhab officer, serving as CapComm, reported positively on the EVA team’s performance.

From a journalistic standpoint, I’ve been planning feature pieces on the physical and psychological transitions involved in returning from Mars to Earth. The weather today was favorable, with minimal cloud cover and abundant sunshine, contributing to a positive working environment. A highlight of the day was the distribution of care and support by our ‘welfare minister’, whose identity remains a delightful secret among the team.

Team Alpha remains enthusiastic and well-prepared for another exciting day on this simulated Martian landscape.

Crew 286 EVA #9 report 22-NOV-2023
EVA # 9
Author: Roger Gilbertson
Purpose of EVA: To perform hi-res LIDAR scanning of the campus buildings and surroundings (Scott). To perform aerial 3D imaging via a drone (Liz).
Start time for EVA: 10:06 am
End time for EVA: 11:35 am (five minutes late)
Narrative: In the morning, the EVA crew realized they would not need the entire duration originally planned, and requested a later departure time to allow for better lighting of the campus structures.
Suiting up went smoothly, and equipment was placed in the airlock. Their work proceeded effectively. Liz encountered some configuration errors with the drone, and eventually realized that the information provided in the manual was not entirely correct, or that something had changed from the standard settings. Many excellent scans and aerial clips were captured. They successfully returned, but five minutes past the requested ending time.
Destination: habitat campus only
EVA Participants:
Scott Beibin
Liz Cole

Road(s) and routes per MDRS Map: none
Mode of travel: walking
Vehicles used: none