Journalist Report – December 12th

Lipi Roy, Crew 288 Journalist
12.12.2023
Sol 02

Hab-Com to EVA Crew: Radio Check. Do you copy? EVA Crew to Hab-Com: Yes, we copy. And on we went, exploring the terrain around Marble Ritual, marveling at the exquisite geological patterns, wondering what it would be to explore the actual Mars…
Our first day on the red planet began to the calming beats of the interstellar theme song, subtly reminding us that it was finally the day to put our space suits on!
After a simple yet filling oatmeal breakfast cooked by Ryan (GHO), I and Jilian (HSO) went to help him in the Greenhab. As we helped plant peas and rosemary, we couldn’t help but admire how much our microgreens had grown overnight. In hopes of harvesting at least a few tomatoes before the end of our rotation, Ryan tried using the newly found exceptional instrument to enhance chances of fruit bearing – ‘the pollinator’. Sadly, it seemed the pollinator wasn’t too happy with the tomato plants because it gave up as soon as Ryan brought it close to the plant. Don’t worry, Ryan. We’ll charge it and try again tomorrow!
Meanwhile, Jesus took his stats final exam (yes guys, life happens!) under the “watchful” eye of our commander. It was also the time when we finally understood what no-internet feels like, when the first comms window closed at sharp 9. To no one’s surprise, it does not feel good. Guess it was up to us now to make the most of our “off-the-grid” life.
And we did! Next came the most exciting part – our FIRST EVAs! What did that feel like? I’d say – the wonder of exploration, feeling like an ‘almost’ astronaut and the spectacular geological features were more than enough to make up for five very long minutes of depressurization. I personally got the privilege of a Geology 101 class from Hunter and Riley, our geology experts. What can I say? Rocks rock!
We realized how the most mundane of tasks became quite challenging with the EVA suits on, like bending down to pick a rock, taking a selfie, or just getting into the rover. Right, Hunter? I learnt that I needed to secure my headset better with my hat; can’t risk losing communication on Mars!
The afternoon was spent relaxing for most of us, especially for Ryan who managed to get a quick nap after a mouse disrupted his sleep last night. Hang in there, Ryan. You’ll catch the mouse! Meanwhile, Jesus worked on soldering AA batteries to help with the experiments of the following crew.
Jilian’s scrumptious Mujadara for dinner was a cherry on the top of our wonderful day. A night of boardgames and Hunter’s funfetti cake awaits!

Journalist Report – December 2nd

Sol #6
Title: A Day of Nutritious Balance and Advanced Exploration
Journalist’s name: Sunny
Crew name: Alpha
Crew number: 287

On Sol #6, the importance of nutrition and wellness was at the forefront of our morning routine. The day began with a log meeting with MARS-V Remote Control team lead Tulgaa, who showed great interest in our health and dietary habits. The provision of freeze-dried foods from Mongolia, courtesy of the MARS-V nutrition team, ensures that we maintain a healthy diet, a source of happiness and energy in this Mars simulation environment.

Post meeting, our morning continued with a delicious breakfast, followed by exercise and mindful meditation, setting a positive tone for the day.

The day’s main event was EVA #6, led by HSO Duluu. Team members Geologist Davaa, Psychologist Tunga, and Engineer Muggi, serving as CapCom, embarked on a mission to the Overlook. Their objectives were multifaceted: to collect soil samples and employ drone technology for remote reconnaissance and surveying. Favorable weather conditions further boosted the crew’s efficiency and morale. With each EVA, our team grows more adept and experienced in Martian exploration.

Back at the base, HSO Duluu engaged in vital work at the Green Hab, planting cucumbers using a new Hydroponic wick system. The sight of micro-greens, sprouted just three days ago, brought her immense joy and is a testament to our advancing agricultural capabilities on this simulated Martian landscape.

A highlight of Sol #6 was our team bonding game, a psychological exercise designed to enhance group dynamics. The game’s outcome was not only impressive but also highly recommended for fostering team cohesion and understanding.

As we conclude Sol #6, it’s evident that the balance of physical well-being, mental health, and team collaboration is pivotal to our success here. Each activity, be it a meal, meditation, EVA, or team game, plays a crucial role in our overall mission. These daily practices are shaping us into a more resilient and cohesive unit, ready to tackle the challenges of Mars exploration.

Journalist Report – December 3rd

Sol #7
Title: Synergy in Science and SustenanceJournalist’s name: Sunny
Crew name: Alpha
Crew number: 287

On Sol 7, our day commenced with a leisurely start at 9 AM, breaking our fast with oatmeal, a shared exercise session, and a group meditation, collectively gearing up for the day’s tasks. Post-breakfast, the crew geared up for EVA #7, departing for White Rock Canyon to conduct reconnaissance, soil sampling, and drone footage.

Mealtimes were a highlight with Duluu preparing a varied lunch and Muggi serving up a spicy penne soup for dinner. These moments of communal dining underscored the unity and morale of our team, reinforcing the importance of shared experiences in maintaining crew spirit.

Scientific work pressed on with Davaa initiating his mud sample tests and Duluu tending to the Greenhab’s thriving plants. Despite a small hiccup in Tungaa’s microbiological research due to missing petri dishes, the crew’s productivity remained unhampered.

Muggi’s increasing drone piloting proficiency has greatly contributed to our surveying capabilities, while I continued to engage the public with our mission’s progress and day-to-day life. The crew’s anticipation for accessing the Musk Observatory remains, with hopes to integrate astronomical observations into our research soon.

As the Sol concludes, we reflect on a day marked by successful teamwork and scientific endeavor. Tomorrow’s plans include an out-of-sim excursion to further our exploration and documentation of this unique environment. The spirit of collaboration and discovery remains strong within Crew 287 as we look forward to the advancements and insights each new Sol brings.

Journalist Report – December 4th

Sol #8
Title: Research Progress and Exciting Astronomical Achievements
Crew name: Alpha
Crew number: 287

As we reach the midpoint of our mission, Sol 8 at the Mars Desert Research Station started with the team collaboratively working on our research report. The synergy and dedication were palpable, showcasing the remarkable teamwork we’ve cultivated. Keeping up with our healthy routines, we engaged in our regular morning exercise, an essential start to our day.

A significant highlight was Captain Dono receiving the green light to access the Musk Observatory. His accomplishment in capturing the first solar image has infused the crew with a sense of achievement and excitement. This breakthrough marks a vital step in our astronomical studies.

The midday meal, crafted by Davaa and me, brought the crew together over a delicious lunch, complemented by HSO Duluu’s freshly harvested salad microgreens. These moments of shared meals play a crucial role in maintaining morale and unity among the crew.

The day’s exploration included a special EVA focused on photo shooting and drone testing. With Ben from Mission Support as our capable Capcom, we are grateful for his guidance and support. Our journey led us to Lith Canyon and Whitehouse, offering us stunning views and an ideal location for our tests.

The day concluded with a productive online meeting with MARS-V Embedded Systems Engineer Battulga “Toshka”. Our discussions centered around the Mars analog suit’s helmet design, a critical element for safety and efficiency in our Martian environment. These collaborative sessions are key to enhancing our operational capabilities and suit functionality.

Sol 8 stands as a testament to the progress and excitement of our mission. From astronomical achievements to technological advancements and vital team collaborations, every aspect of today’s activities contributes to the overarching success of our Mars simulation. As we continue our journey, the spirit of discovery and innovation remains stronger than ever.

Journalist Report – December 5th

Sol #9
Title: Observing Solar Storms and Advancing Mars Research
Crew name: Alpha
Crew number: #287

Sol # 9 commenced with our cherished morning routine of exercise and a healthy breakfast, setting a positive tone for the day. The weather was exceptionally pleasant, sunny, and warm, adding to the overall good spirits of the crew.

A highlight of the day was Captain Dono’s work at the Musk Observatory. He shared with us an extraordinary view of a solar storm, showcasing the Sun’s beauty and charisma in a new light. This experience was not only awe-inspiring but also educational, offering us a glimpse into the dynamic nature of our closest star.

Today’s meals, masterfully prepared by Tungaa and Dono, were also highlights. Lunch featured an impressive Beef Bulgogi complemented by red cabbage microgreens, demonstrating our commitment to combining nutrition and taste. Adding to the culinary delight, I, Sunny, prepared a frozen yogurt dessert, offering a refreshing end to the meal.

HSO Duluu’s dedication in the Green Hub continues to yield results. Today, she focused on planting bean and sunflower microgreens, contributing to our sustainable living practices and ensuring a steady supply of fresh produce.

Davaa’s efforts in testing bricks made from grey and red clay soil samples are critical in our exploration of using Martian-like materials for building purposes. Muggi delved into the development of the MARS-V project’s program, focusing on defining the engineering tasks in the “Science taker,” “Challenge taker,” and “Experience taker” programs. His work is essential in shaping the roles of engineers in future Mars analog missions. Tunga continued her important work on the Mars food experiment, investigating the psychological and nutritional aspects of space cuisine, vital for long-duration missions.

Journalist Report – December 6th

Sol #10
Title: Continued Exploration and Culinary Innovation
Crew name: Alpha
Crew number: #287

As Sol 10 dawned at the Mars Desert Research Station, we were welcomed with another day of sunshine and warmth. The crew’s day began with a nutritious breakfast and routine exercise, infusing a positive energy amongst us. This set the stage for a day filled with diverse and impactful research and sustainability projects.

HSO Duluu and Geologist Davaa focused on geological tasks tailored for the MARS-V Program’s “Science taker”, “Challenge taker”, and “Experience taker” categories, contributing valuable insights to our collective understanding.

A key highlight of our daily life at the station has been the innovative culinary endeavors led by Engineer Muggi and HSO Duluu, especially with the use of red cabbage from our Greenhub. This nutritious and vibrant vegetable has brought not only a dash of color and variety to our meals but also underscored the importance of sustainable agriculture in space environments.

The crew engaged in an online meeting with the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs team, discussing the MARS-V Analog Beta Helmet development. The meeting was progressive and effective, adding momentum to our technological advancements.

As we approach the end of our mission, the crew remains deeply committed to achieving our established goals. The anticipation of concluding our journey brings a mix of excitement and reflective thoughts on the invaluable experiences and learnings we’ve gathered here.

Journalist Report – November 27th

Sol #1
Title: First Day at Mars Analog Center
Journalist’s name: Sunny
Crew name: Alpha
Crew number: 287

Today, history was made as the world’s first Mars Analog Center welcomed the Alpha Crew 287. Stepping into the simulated Martian landscape felt like a thrilling leap into the unknown.

Led by Captain Dono, with experts like Geologist Davaa, Engineer Muggi, Health and Safety Officer Dulu, and Psychologist Tunga, our team began training.

Training and induction were skillfully guided by Ben and impressed everyone. The Science Dome, packed with instruments, promises exciting discoveries in our simulated Martian world.

As we embark on this analog Martian adventure, the Alpha Crew 287 eagerly anticipates the mysteries and adventures that await in this groundbreaking simulation.

Journalist Report – November 29th

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.

Journalist Report – November 30th

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.

Journalist Report – December 1st

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.

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