Morgan Kainu
Crew Journalist/Scientist/Geologist
MDRS Station, Crew 220
Crew 220 MDRS Science Report 28JAN2020
Sol 9
Author: Morgan Kainu, Crew Journalist/Scientist/Geologist
Today the MDRS and MAU crew conducted its first Geological Extra Vehicular Activity (GEVA) at “Kissing Camel Ridge” and “North Ridge”. Prior to the EVA, Science Officer Morgan Kainu provided an orientation to geological science, soil sampling and stratification analysis. In addition, several EVA objectives were set including to:
1. Conduct a safe EVA;
2. Formulate and test a hypothesis relating to geologic soil sampling;
3. Become familiar with procedures of geological soil sampling;
4. Become familiar with procedures of stratification analysis (that helps to know how old the area is (dating));
5. Be able to identify the chemical compensation of the soil (led by Aquila); and
6. Practice using the microscope (led by Raven and Owl).
The purpose of this Extra Vehicular Activity (EVA) was to become familiar with procedures of geological soil sampling, become familiar with procedures of stratification analysis (for understanding how to date the area), be able to identify the chemical compensation of the soil samples and practice using the Foldscope portable microscopes for sample observations.
The crew also formulated a hypothesis prior to leaving on the EVA. They discussed the most probable planet geological history, discussing whether or not it was formerly an ocean or not. The Null Hypothesis (Ho) was that “The planet’s geological history was shaped by oceanic influences, generating marine fossils and organic material”.
Only one of the objectives were not met (chemical composition) as we were short of time.
Upon concluding the soil sample and stratification analysis we had sufficient information to reject the Null and accepted the Alternative hypothesis (H1); that the planet’s geological history was not oceanic – rather, but it was formed at least in part by alluvial sediment deposits.