Log Book for January 5, 2011
Commander's Report
Judah Epstein Reporting
Crew 97 began the day with breakfast followed by morning exercise. Two EVAs were conducted today. The morning EVA led by XO consisted of taking photograph and rock samples for the Satellite comparison study. XO was accompanied by another crewmember for her first MDRS EVA. The afternoon EVA, conducted by XO and Human Factors Researcher, also consisted of the Satellite comparison study and summiting Phobos Peak. The two EVAs also performed reconnaissance for Commander's Sedimentary Filter experiment and Engineer's Rock Varnish study.
The Crew Engineer, Commander, and DG spent all day working on various engineering responsibilities such as repairing the ATVs (all four are now functional), working on the water heater, and working on the generator after a power failure. During the power failure, the crew-members learned of the reality of living on Mars in a remote habitat without access to modern technology such as lighting and digital communications. Fortunately, before sunset the power was restored. The Crew Engineer will continue working on various repairs such as working on the water heater, replacing the bladder on the greywater toilet flush line, and EVA pack #3.
In-Hab scientific experiments were delayed due to power failure and awaiting human research approval. Commander's slow sand filter in the GreenHab is progressing. The third filter with local MDRS sands has been created and is functioning. Water analysis continues to be recorded along with additional data collected tonight regarding bacteria levels of the Martian Simulant filter, commercial sand filter, MDRS sand filter, Wetland filter, and raw greywater.
Tomorrow's plans include initiating the rover, morning and afternoon EVA, continuing water filtration and water analysis, and hopefully achieving permissions to begin the psycho-physiological study.