Mission Plan – April 6th

1. Béatrice Hollander and Arnaud de Wergifosse – Lactobacillus helveticus
Objective:
To evaluate the impact of Lactobacillus Helveticus on sleep and stress

Methodology:
Two groups: one control (Placebo) and one intervention group (Lactobacillus Helveticus) in a double blinded design. All participants will receive an active treatment or a placebo pill everyday.
Monitoring sleep and stress variations through behavioural and physiological data with questionnaires and wearables. Body temperature and oxygen blood saturation will be controlled.

Schedule:
Weekly questionnaires and everyday data during nights.

2. Antoine Dubois – Wind Erosion and Sediment Transport
Objective:
To study wind-driven erosion and sediment transport dynamics in a Mars analog desert environment.

Methodology:
Installation of sediment collectors at various heights and in the same area.
Granulometric analysis of collected sediment using sieves.
Environmental data recorded with temperature, humidity sensors, and GPS for spatial mapping.
Integration of data into GIS for visualization.

Schedule:
Equipment installation: early mission (Sol 1–2).
Regular data retrieval and sample collection (every 2–3 Sols).
Final analysis and synthesis near the end of the mission.

3. Louis Baltus – Mobile UX and Radiation Forecasting
Objective:
Evaluate user interaction with mobile devices in isolated, confined, and extreme (ICE) environments.
Develop a solar radiation forecasting model using ground and satellite data.

Methodology:
Usability tests under simulated Mars conditions with crew interaction logging.
Data integration from the Musk observatory at MDRS and satellite databases.
Model construction for predictive radiation events affecting Mars explorers.

Schedule:
UX test phases distributed across the mission (beginning, mid-point, and end).
Radiation data collection ongoing; model refinement toward the final days.
Crew surveys and feedback collected in parallel.

4. Bérengère Bastogne – Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi under Stress Conditions
Objective:
To investigate how arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi respond to Martian-like stress.

Methodology:
Germination and viability tests (MTT assay) post-exposure to Martian-like stress.
Symbiosis testing with host plants; root staining and microscopy.

Schedule:
Sample exposure and monitoring start early (Sol 1–2).
Lab work and analysis continue throughout the mission.
Symbiosis testing and documentation near mission end.

5. Dr. Odile Hilgers – Crisis Resource Management (CRM) in Medical Emergencies
Objective:
To evaluate CRM strategies during medical emergencies in a simulated Mars mission, focusing on performance, debriefing impact, and team dynamics.

Methodology:
Implementation of medical emergency scenarios (CPR, EVA incidents, team confusion).
Performance assessment using Ottawa Global Rating Scale (GRS).
Use of high-fidelity manikins, AED trainers, and GoPro recordings.
Structured debriefing after each simulation.

Schedule:
Six key simulation events planned (Sol 2, 4, 7, 8, 10, 12).
Debriefings conducted the same evening.
Data collection includes video analysis and time-stamped feedback logs.

6. Batoul Tani – UV-C Exposure & thermal cycling effects on Biofilms and Spores
Objective:
To determine how UV-C radiation and thermal cycling affect the resistance of E. coli biofilms and Bacillus thuringiensis spores, and the protective potential of various materials.

Methodology:
Controlled exposure of bacterial cultures to UV-C
Use of petri dishes, 96 well plates, agar-agar media, and UV measurement devices.
Quantitative analysis post-exposure for viability and structural integrity.

Schedule:
Initial culture setup: Sol 4.
Exposure sessions spread across mission (Sol 5, 8, 10).
Sample documentation and interim analysis mid-mission.

HSO Pre-Mission Checklist – April 6th

HSO BEGINNING OF MISSION CHECKLIST 2024-2025

Submitted by: Odile Hilgers

Crew: 314

Date: April 6th 2025

Part 1

Locate and confirm the emergency escape routes in the Hab are functional and clear:

  1. Stairs (between lower end upper deck) : Clear and functional

  2. Emergency window (upper deck, east side) : Clear and functional

  3. Commander’s window (located in the commander’s crew quarter) : Clear an functional

Part 2

Inventory First Aid kit and note what needs to be refilled:

Main First Aid Cabinet (medical supplies and a few basic medications)

  • Blood Pressure Monitor (batteries OK)

  • Cotton Swabs (2 boxes)

  • Medical Alcohol 91% (⅓ of the first bottle, ⅔ of the second)

  • Antiseptic – Hydrogen Peroxide (2 bottles, nearly full)

  • Dental Floss (1 nearly full box)

  • Band-Aids (almost empty, ~10%) 🔁 [Needs refilling]

  • Sanitary Napkins (5)

  • Ibuprofen 200 mg (20 pills remaining out of 50)

  • Cutaneous Thermometer (batteries OK)

  • FFP2 Masks (12)

  • Standard Surgical Masks (13)

  • Emergency Blankets (4)

  • Emergency Splint (1)

  • Medical Tape (3 rolls, not full)

  • Various types of Bandages (7 rolls)

  • Motion Sickness Medication (1 unit)

  • Nitrile Gloves (1 pair)

  • Instant Cold Compress (unused / full)

Sol Summary – March 26th

Morning Briefing
Unlike previous days, today’s EVAs were student-planned, incorporating a robotic dog into their mission execution. Teams outlined their objectives, focusing on medical response and robotic-assisted transport.

Robotic Dog-Assisted Medical Transport and Emergency Response
Objective: Utilize a robotic dog to carry a medical payload and assist in responding to medical emergencies.
Students deployed the robotic dog with a medical payload to navigate terrain and deliver supplies.

Teams responded to simulated medical emergencies, including an elbow break and an ankle sprain, implementing appropriate stabilization techniques.

The robotic dog was integrated into patient transport logistics, enhancing efficiency and reducing astronaut exertion.

Effective coordination between human team members and the robotic assistant was emphasized.

Emergency Response to Solar Particle Events
Objective: React swiftly and effectively to an incoming solar particle event while ensuring crew safety.
Students monitored simulated space weather updates and identified warning signs of solar activity.

Teams executed emergency sheltering procedures, demonstrating quick decision-making under time constraints.

The robotic dog assisted in transporting critical supplies to designated safe zones.

Communication protocols were tested to ensure seamless information relay between EVA teams and the Hab.

Debriefing and Lessons Learned
Following the EVAs, students participated in a debriefing session where they discussed key takeaways, challenges faced, and strategies for improvement. The session reinforced the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and interdisciplinary collaboration in space mission scenarios. The integration of robotic assistance was evaluated for its effectiveness in medical transport and emergency logistics.

Conclusion
Today’s mission simulation successfully provided an immersive educational experience, highlighting the intersections of medicine, robotics, and engineering in space exploration. Students demonstrated exceptional planning and execution of their EVAs, responding effectively to medical emergencies and environmental hazards. The exercises reinforced critical skills necessary for future roles in space medicine, robotics, and engineering fields.

Sol Summary – March 25th

Objective
The primary goal of today’s mission activities was to provide students with hands-on experience using a litter in the field to rescue a patient with a simulated broken femur. Students applied wilderness first aid principles and engineering design concepts to real-time mission challenges, including fixing communications and responding to an off-nominal situation.

Morning Briefing
The day began with a briefing on the mission objectives and safety protocols. Students were divided into EVA teams and designated specific roles, including medical officers, engineers, and communications specialists. The briefing included an overview of EVA procedures, emergency response strategies, and the environmental hazards associated with the simulated Martian terrain.

Simulated EVA Activities

Medical Emergency Response and Stretcher Transport
Objective: Assess, stabilize, and transport an injured astronaut using a stretcher while coordinating between separated groups.
Teams navigated through rugged terrain to reach a simulated casualty.

Students applied wilderness first aid, including spinal precautions, wound management, and transport strategies.

A stretcher was used to safely transport the patient, requiring coordinated teamwork between two separated groups.

Effective communication with mission control and between field teams was emphasized to relay patient status and coordinate movement.

Engineering Challenge – Communications Antenna Placement and Relay
Objective: Identify, repair, and place a communications antenna in a higher location to improve signal strength while practicing complex communications relay.
Students assessed the terrain to determine the optimal elevated location for the communications antenna.

Teams worked together to transport and securely install the antenna at the selected site, ensuring structural stability and optimal signal transmission.

The challenge tested the integration of engineering skills with mission-critical thinking under time constraints.

Students practiced structured communication techniques to relay complex messages between the separated field teams and the Hab, ensuring clarity and accuracy in mission-critical updates.

Debriefing and Lessons Learned
Following the EVAs, students participated in a debriefing session where they discussed key takeaways, challenges faced, and strategies for improvement. In this EVA, students learned the importance of team structure and dynamic re-structuring to meet the needs of the mission and dynamic medical emergencies. The role of clear and precise communication in high-stakes situations was particularly highlighted as a vital skill for future space missions.

Sol Summary – March 24th

Objective: The primary goal of today’s mission activities was to provide students with hands-on experience in the challenges of medical care and engineering problem-solving during extravehicular activities (EVAs) in a Mars analog environment. Through simulated scenarios, students applied wilderness first aid principles and engineering design concepts to real-time mission challenges.

Morning Briefing: The day began with a briefing on the mission objectives and safety protocols. Students were divided into EVA teams and designated specific roles, including medical officers, engineers, and communications specialists. The briefing included an overview of EVA procedures, emergency response strategies, and the environmental hazards associated with the simulated Martian terrain.

Simulated EVA Activities:
EVA Objective 1: Medical Emergency Response
Assess and stabilize an injured astronaut in a remote location.
Teams navigated through rugged terrain to reach a simulated casualty.

Students applied wilderness first aid, including spinal precautions, wound management, and transport strategies.

Effective communication with mission control was emphasized to relay patient status and request assistance.

EVA Objective 2: Engineering Challenge – Equipment Repair
Identify and repair a malfunctioning habitat life-support system component.
Students conducted a diagnostic assessment of a simulated life-support failure.

Teams employed problem-solving strategies to fabricate and implement temporary repairs using available resources.

The challenge tested the integration of engineering skills with mission-critical thinking under time constraints.

Debriefing and Lessons Learned
Following the EVAs, students participated in a debriefing session where they discussed key takeaways, challenges faced, and strategies for improvement. The session reinforced the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and interdisciplinary collaboration in space mission scenarios.

Conclusion
Today’s mission simulation successfully provided an immersive educational experience, highlighting the intersections of medicine and engineering in space exploration. Students gained valuable hands-on experience in responding to medical emergencies and troubleshooting technical failures, preparing them for future roles in space medicine and engineering fields.

Supplemental Operations Report -March 22nd

Date: 3/22/2025
Name of person filing report: David Steinhour
Reason for Report: Routine
Non-Nominal Systems: Crew car. Power system battery, invertors, generator. Robotic observatory. HAB outer shell, tunnels.

Power system: "Solar: The battery bank does not hold charge when sun is down and low on the horizon. Inverter Slave 1 and 2 went offline and do not restart, which limits us to 5kW when on solar.
Main generator has been monitored for oil leaks; minor leaks observed, Moreover, generator is consuming oil because of worn piston rings. Adding oil every day is necessary. Generator is limited to 8kW, see previous reports for details.
Main generator:
1) Oil, oil filter, air filter changed on 3/19/2025.
2) Current hours – 8973.7"

Propane Readings: "Refilled 3/19/2025
Station Tank: 80%
Director Tank: 83%
Intern Tank: 86%
Generator Tank: 81%"

Water: "Hab Static Tank – 550 gallons
GreenHab – 200 gallons
Outpost tank – 550 gallons"

Rovers: "Sojourner rover used: Yes
Hours: 210.7
Beginning Charge: 100 %
Ending Charge: 100 %
Currently Charging: No
Notes on Rovers: None."

Cars: "Hab Car used and why, where: To Hanksville for supplies.
Crew Car used and why, where: No.
General notes and comments: Crew car driver’s side front ball joint is bad. Low oil pressure is most likely caused by a bad sensor (it does not change due to RPM or temperature like it should)."

Summary of Internet: Guest wifi had to be turned on manually 3/20, but automation worked fine last night 3/21
EVA suits and radios: "Suits: Nominal.
Comms: Nominal.
T-Echo EVA-link: Astro8 is malfunctioning and need to be replaced."
Campus wide inspection, if action taken, what and why: Tunnel tarp is once again ripped between science dome and solar observatory.
Summary of Hab Operations: Small cracks in the wall of the Hab in the loft area are allowing cold air intrusion.
Summary of GreenHab Operations: Nominal
Summary of SciDome Operations: Nominal
Summary of Observatories Operations: Robotic observatory offline.
Summary of RAM Operations: Nominal
Summary of Outpost Operations: Nominal
Summary of Health and Safety Issues: Nominal

Crew 309 End-Mission Research Report 22Mar2025

[title End-Mission Research Report – March 22nd]

[category science-report]

Crew 309 Mission Science Report
MDRS, Saturday 22 March 2025

Name of person filing report: Aaron Allred
Overview: Crew 309 has been in the MDRS for one week, conducting a pilot
experiment within the research domain of aerospace human factors research. Due to
the nature of these experiments, the six-person habitat crew has remained naïve to
the experiment objectives, which have been coordinated by a separate three-person
experimental team stationed in nearby Hanksville, UT while running remote
operations by day out of the science dome.
In particular, our primary experiment examined how aspects of teams, confined to an
isolated space analog, influence information processing, communication, and
performance amongst dyads performing simulated EVAs. As such, our experiment
required different combinations of the six-person habitat crew to perform a series of
12 EVAs over the course of the week. During these EVAs, the crew was in full sim.
Due to the ongoing nature of this experiment (and being a pilot test), some of the
finer experimental details are left intentionally vague. Please feel free to contact us.
Name: Extravehicular Activity Navigation Tasks
Type: Human Factors: Judgments and Decision-Making
Crew: Full Crew
Description: The crew performed a series of 12 EVAs over the course of a week
(each lasting ~3 hours) in various dyad pairs. These pairs were structured by the
experimenters a priori to produce unique combinations across team members, who
were each assigned unique roles including Co-Commander A, Co-Commander B,
Scientist, Engineer, Medic, and GreenHab. These roles provided an assigned
hierarchy that was assessed for natural evolution throughout the mission week using
subjectively reported nightly surveys, as well as after EVAs.
During these EVAs, which represent unique experimental trials, crewmembers were
assigned unique pieces of information that could not be shared physically but could
be shared using other forms of communication (such as over radio). This portion of
the design used distributed information sources to simulate distributed expertise that
may be encountered during future space missions EVAs.
Navigation performance was gathered using Garmin T5X GPS tracking equipment in
real-time. Experimenters had access to a Garmin Alpha 10 handheld and Drivetrack
71, which enabled this real-time tracking and monitoring. In addition to voice and
position sensors, pilot participants were outfitted with physiological sensors, which
included eye-tracking glasses. For this pilot experiment the Tobii 2 was utilized, but in
future experiments, the Tobii 3 is planned. Following EVAs and at night,
crewmembers filled a number of surveys. To facilitate these devices, custom
spacesuit simulators were designed and engineered for this mission.

A vehicle in a desert AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Figure 1 . Return from a dyadic navigation task on the final day.

Status:
All experimental conditions were successfully piloted by the crew over the course of
the course of the simulation. In addition to executing these tasks in dyads,
crewmembers also successfully made autonomous repairs to their custom spacesuit
simulators, eye-tracking equipment, and survey software. This pilot experiment
demonstrated that a trained crew is capable of performing autonomous, in-simulation
human factors research at MDRS for full data collection at a later date. Further, this
pilot experiment gave key insights into how to titrate the task difficulty at each of our 6
EVA sites, streamline experimental operations, and provide a more representative
spaceflight-analog isolation and confinement experience to crew members.